Dalla Valle Maya Proprietary Red Blend (slighlty scuffed label) 1996

Professional Ratings

• 96 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  The 1996 Maya is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Vivid, intense aromas of new saddle leather, plums, black currants, underbrush, and licorice are followed by a full-bodied, sensationally concentrated wine with sweet tannin, a deep, exceptionally pure and concentrated mid-palate, and an opulently-textured finish. It was surprisingly open-knit and delicious when tasted in October, but there is more tannin lurking beneath the surface. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2025.
• 92 Wine Spectator
  Bold, ripe and generous. Dark in color, this is very rich and concentrated without being heavy. The flavors are built around ripe blackberry, cherry, mineral and herbal sage notes. Ends with a complex aftertaste and firm but ripe tannins. Easily the best of three bottles.