2019 Collina, Dalla Valle, Napa
50% Cabernet Franc, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot. Dalla Valle Vineyards is recognized as one of Napa Valley’s preeminent family-run wineries, on the eastern benchland of Oakville. Established initially by her parents, it's now run by head winemaker Maya Dalla Valle, who counts Petrus on her CV. This is the bargain of the range, technically a second wine, and made from what were traditionally the younger vines. Now the vineyard is well established, and this is a characterful wine in its own right. Full of black cherry and cassis fruit, the Cabernet Franc lends an additional herbal dimension, as well as some rose petals and mineral notes on the finish.