2016 Dalla Valle Maya

The most reticent of the 2016s, Maya is going to need at least a few years in bottle to be at its best, and even that may not be enough. Today, the bright red fruit and soaring aromatics of the Cabernet Franc are especially evident. I have no doubt the 2016 will be spectacular when it opens up, but that is going to take at least a few years. Sweet red fruit, dried flowers, mint, blood orange and cinnamon build into a crescendo of aromas, flavors, and textures.

67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc. Coming on the heels of a prolonged multi-year drought, the 2016 growing season was defined by near-ideal conditions. Rain in March and early April allowed the vines to start the spring with ample moisture in the soil, making for healthy canopies and balanced vines. A dry, mild summer, with only one short heat event, helped the fruit ripen with deep colour, intense aromatics, and ample natural acidity. Harvested 8 September to 20 September. Inky purple in the glass, with an almost tarry ripeness of cassis and blackberry fruit. Very powerful, thick and rich. The toasty oak adds a cherry-cola note which increases the overall impression of heady ripeness. Hedonistic and impressive but a little excessive for my palate. (TP)

The 2016 Maya offers another level of depth and density and is a truly special, magical wine. A blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Cabernet Franc, it boasts off the chart notes of blackcurrants, Asian spices, lead pencil, chocolate, and incense. These all give way to a massively concentrated, rich, and powerful wine that nevertheless stays oh, so seamless, silky and pure, with a finish that goes on for minutes. Utterly profound in every way, this sensational wine hits every high point you could ever set for a glass of wine. it's one of the top 2-3 wines in this report. Hide bottles for 7-8 years and it will keep for 3-4 decades.