Naoko Dalla Valle

Founder, Farmer and Proprietor

Since founding Dalla Valle Vineyards in 1986, Naoko has been the guiding force behind Dalla Valle, quietly earning a reputation as one of Napa Valley’s most respected vintners. While doing so, she has established Dalla Valle as one of the New World’s most beloved wineries. A passionate farmer, and a believer that great wines are made in the vineyard, under Naoko’s stewardship, the Dalla Valle estate has earned legendary status for the quality of its Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The embodiment of a hands-on owner, Naoko is in the vineyard almost daily, adding her three decades of winegrowing knowledge to every decision that shapes the vines and ensures the pinnacle of quality.

In 2017, Naoko was joined at Dalla Valle by her daughter, Maya, a gifted winemaker who learned her craft working at some of the world’s most iconic wineries. “I have long admired the great multigenerational wineries of Europe, so having Maya join me at Dalla Valle was always a secret dream,” says Naoko. “As a mother, working beside my daughter to preserve the vision and values that have always defined Dalla Valle is truly inspiring.”