At a glance

Producer

Robert Mondavi Winery

Region

California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (varietal; may include small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and/or Petit Verdot depending on bottling)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20–$28 USD (retail average for standard Napa/California bottling, not Reserve or Oakville tiers)

Tasting profile

Notes of blackberry, black cherry, cassis, plum, accented by vanilla, cedar, baking spice from oak, with savory undertones.

Evolution: Fruit will become more integrated, secondary notes of tobacco, earth, and leather may develop; tannins will continue to soften.

At peak: Harmonious integration of fruit and oak, plush mouthfeel, layered flavors where tertiary notes complement ripe California fruit while structure remains intact.

Structure

Acidity

Medium; fresh and supporting structure, keeps wine lively through aging.

Tannins

Medium; present but approachable, beginning to soften and integrate with age.

Alcohol

Moderate to moderately high (typically 13.5–14.5%), well balanced given California sunshine.

Aging potential

Around 8–10 years from vintage; best in first 6–8 years for non-reserve bottlings.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2027

Optimal window

2023 to 2028

Current status

Ready to drink, but can benefit from short-term aging.

Current condition

Youthful, vibrant fruit; moderate tannin presence; primary and secondary aromas prominent.

The 2024–2027 period is considered peak as the wine’s tannins will further soften and secondary flavors become more pronounced, without the fruit fading. During this time, the wine achieves best balance of structure, flavor intensity, and aromatic integration. After the peak, fruit flavors will diminish and tertiary notes may dominate, leading to a more muted and less lively profile.

Food pairing

Classic pairings include grilled steak, roast lamb, or beef short ribs. Current profile complements dishes with char, herbs, and spices (e.g., rosemary prime rib, peppercorn filet mignon, BBQ portobello mushrooms for vegetarians). As wine ages, pairings with richer, umami-laden dishes (like braised meats or aged cheeses) become more favorable as the wine’s structure mellows.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that are beginning to soften, which can benefit from decanting to enhance its aromas and flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water conservation, biodiversity support, solar energy use, reduced chemical interventions

Robert Mondavi Winery is a leader in sustainable winegrowing in California, holding CSWA certification and implementing recognized sustainable practices, though scale of production leads to a moderate footprint compared to boutique producers.