At a glance

Producer

Robert Mondavi Winery

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$35-$55 USD

Tasting profile

Vibrant blackcurrant, blackberry, plum, vanilla oak, cocoa, with fresh herbal undertones.

Evolution: Over time: fruit softens, tertiary notes (cedar, tobacco leaf, graphite, leather) develop; depth and integration increase.

At peak: Balanced harmony of fruit, oak, and developing bottle bouquet—classic mature Napa Cabernet character.

Structure

Acidity

Medium+ acidity for balance and longevity.

Tannins

Firm, youthful tannins typical of Napa Cabernet when young.

Alcohol

14.0-14.5% ABV (typical for Napa Valley)

Aging potential

8-12 years from vintage, possibility of longer for optimal cellar conditions.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2029 to 2033

Optimal window

2027 to 2035

Current status

Too young; just released or in early post-bottling phase (2024/2025).

Current condition

Primary fruit-driven; tight structure; aging potential not yet developed.

The wine is built for medium-term aging, structured by Napa's climate, fruit concentration, and quality oak maturation. Best enjoyed from 4+ years after vintage, when tannins mellow and complexities emerge.

Food pairing

Prime rib, grilled New York strip steak, lamb chops, aged cheddar, mushroom risotto, hearty vegetarian dishes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Young, structured Cabernet benefits from aeration to open aromatics and soften tannins.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Robert Mondavi Winery employs integrated water management (recycling, drip irrigation), cover cropping to prevent erosion, composting, wildlife corridor preservation, use of lightweight glass bottles, solar panels for energy, and reduction of chemical use.

Robert Mondavi Winery is a leader in sustainable practices in Napa. While not certified organic or biodynamic, their CCSW and Napa Green credentials denote rigorous environmentally responsible farming and production. They engage in habitat restoration, minimize water and chemical use, and are moving toward lower-impact packaging and renewable energy. Large-scale international distribution increases carbon footprint, but their sustainability focus places them in the upper tier for responsible Napa producers.