Maya Dalla Valle is a Napa Valley winemaker carrying her family’s estate, Dalla Valle Vineyards, into its next chapter. She's hands-on, from the vines and harvest through fermentation and bottling. I met Maya through mutual friends here in the valley, and we became fast friends. I later introduced her to the U.S.-Japan Council, where she decided to become a member (a very exciting moment, and a real honor for me). Now, an opportunity for a rare peek into the 2025 Winemaker of the Year's shower.
What’s the one product you swear by and why?
Other than the GNTL products! Skinceuticals FE Ferulic Acid serum, I have been using it for several years for anti-aging and as I approach 40 I believe it’s kept my skin youthful!
Pull back the curtain for us... what moment or spark set you on the path to creating what you’re building now?
It started with my first harvest in 2009. Working with my hands and watching grapes become wine, I realized this was what I wanted to do. My Japanese heritage taught me the value of carrying a family business forward, and in that moment I knew I wanted to continue our family estate in a hands-on way. It lets me express my creative side while keeping our legacy alive.
What’s something most people don’t see about the work that goes into your brand? Where do I even begin?
So much work goes into making wine, from tending the vines through harvest, fermentation, and bottling. I'm fortunate to have a team that is just as passionate as I am and takes real pride in what they do. If you love wine, I encourage you to spend a week in the winery during harvest. You'll never look at a glass the same way again
Tell us one Gntl thing you do for yourself.
Whenever I am stressed or need a moment at work, there is nothing better than taking my two corgis with me into the vineyard for a walk. It gives me an instant feeling of calm and peace being amongst the vines. It is my version of forest bathing!
