2006 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon has put on considerable weight over the last 12 months. It exhibits aromas of melted licorice, creme de cassis, burning embers, black currants, cherries, and smoky, meaty notes. Rich, full-bodied, and dense, but surprisingly accessible, it is ideal for drinking over the next 15+ years. Following a significant replanting, it is good to see this property come back so strongly. Both 2006s, which seemed closed last year, have performed far better this year. Moreover, it appears 2007 may be the greatest vintage at this estate since the mid-1990s classics such as 1994 and 1995. Tel. (707) 944-2676; Fax (707) 944-8411
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(includes about 20% cabernet franc) Good medium ruby-red. Medicinal black cherry and licorice flavors are nicely lifted by a violet element. A suave, juicy midweight, with dark fruit, mineral and violet flavors complicated by a hint of truffle. Finishes with dusty tannins that avoid coming off as dry.
Good full, bright ruby-red. Intriguing aromas of iron, flowers, spices and tobacco leaf. Juicy and firmly built, with claret-like flavors of currant, tobacco leaf, mocha and spice. This is almost 25% cabernet franc. Today this strikes me as a tad longer than the 2005 version of this wine.
About the producer
Dalla Valle Vineyards was founded in 1986 by Naoko and her late husband Gustav Dalla Valle, in Oakville. Initially they had wanted to create a luxury resort, but when they discovered the potential of the site, they changed tack and decided to make wine.