The 2021 Maya is one of the benchmark wines of Napa Valley and a spectacular release from Dalla Valle. The blend is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc, matured for approximately 24 months in 80% new French oak. It combines extraordinary concentration with the perfume, freshness and finesse that distinguish Maya from many other Napa cult wines.
Professional Ratings
| Critic |
Score |
| Wine Advocate |
⭐ 100 |
| Jeb Dunnuck |
⭐ 100 |
| Decanter |
99 |
| The Wine Independent |
99 |
| Vinous |
98+ |
| James Suckling |
97 |
| Wine Spectator |
97 |
The Wine Advocate awarded a perfect 100 points, emphasizing its combination of cassis, violets, earth, tobacco and mint along with remarkable silkiness, concentration and restraint. It should evolve beautifully for at least another two decades.
Jeb Dunnuck – 100: Originally rated 97–100, Dunnuck subsequently gave the finished wine 100 points, praising its red, blue and black fruit, graphite, floral character and rocky minerality, along with polished tannins and tremendous purity. His current drinking window extends approximately 2035–2065.
Decanter – 99: Boysenberry and kirsch meet cedar and rose petals. The wine is full-bodied and densely structured, yet retains an impressive sense of lightness and elegance despite its concentration.
Vinous – 98+: Antonio Galloni highlights its impressive vertical structure and balance, with red fruit, blood orange, cinnamon, leather and cedar carried by bright acidity and substantial tannins.
James Suckling – 97: Plum and blackberry are joined by chocolate and walnut, with a velvety texture, substantial structure and lively freshness. He recommends allowing it additional bottle age, ideally after 2027.
Wine Spectator – 97: Boysenberry, mulberry and blackcurrant are framed by tobacco, iron and floral nuances. Recommended 2026–2045.
Tasting Profile
Nose: Cassis, blackberry, boysenberry and dark cherry layered with violet, rose, graphite, tobacco, mint, cedar and earthy truffle.
Palate: Concentrated yet remarkably graceful. Dark fruit and Cabernet Franc florals are supported by fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity and iron-rich mineral character, with touches of cocoa, herbs and spice.
Finish: Exceptionally long and seamless, carrying blackcurrant, violet, graphite, tobacco and savory mineral notes.
Sommelier’s Take
The 2021 Maya is a monumental Napa wine, but its appeal isn't simply power. The Cabernet Sauvignon provides depth and structure while the unusually high proportion of Cabernet Franc contributes perfume, freshness and elegance. Despite the perfect scores, this remains youthful and deserves significant cellar time.
