The 2020 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is a notable red wine from the renowned Napa Valley sub-appellation of Oakville, California. Produced by the esteemed Dalla Valle winery, this wine is composed predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon (80%) with a blend of 20% Cabernet Franc. The wine is sealed with a cork and has an alcohol content of 14.6%.
The 2020 vintage has garnered considerable praise from several prominent wine reviewers, receiving high scores and commendations for its complexity and balance. James Suckling awarded it an impressive 96 points, noting its "blackberry and lead-pencil shavings" and "extremely well-crafted tannins." Suckling also highlighted hints of oak and tar, suggesting that the wine will further develop with bottle age, recommending it be enjoyed after 2026.
Decanter rated the wine 94 points and described it as "absolutely riveting with immense purity of dark black fruits, sagebrush, sandalwood, and purple florals dusted with cinnamon." The review highlighted the wine's full-bodied nature, crisp tannins, and long finish marked by graphite and cassis. The reviewer also emphasized the craftsmanship of second-generation winemaker Maya Dalla Valle, who has honed her skills at prestigious wineries such as Ornellaia and Chateau Latour.
Jeb Dunnuck also gave this wine a 94-point score, praising its "deep purple color" and "brilliant bouquet of crème de cassis, graphite, liquid violets, and nicely integrated background oak." Dunnuck described it as a medium to full-bodied wine with ripe, polished tannins and a great finish, placing it among the top wines of the vintage.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated the wine at 95 points, with the tasting notes mentioning "black cherries, dark loam, and cassis" on the nose, complemented by hints of cedar and vanilla. The review highlighted its medium to full body, firm tannic structure, and a long, mocha-tinged finish that suggests early accessibility.
Vinous, giving the wine 92 points, described it as offering "terrific density and power," with bright red-toned fruit, spice, leather, tobacco, and rose petal. The review noted that the 2020 vintage is slightly lighter than usual, with incisive tannins but balanced elements.
Finally, Wine Spectator awarded the wine 93 points, citing its "showy violet, boysenberry, and sweet bay leaf notes" and "good juicy energy." The review appreciated its flow and the loamy accent on the finish, recommending it be consumed between now and 2035.
In summary, the 2020 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is a well-crafted, balanced wine that promises to age gracefully, with excellent reviews from renowned critics highlighting its complexity, structure, and potential for further development.