2017 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

2017 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

2017 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Textural richness defines our deeply concentrated, dark-fruited Oakville cabernet sauvignon, wrapping blackberry, black plum and blueberry flavors in warm baking spices and toasty oak and sending them across the silky palate structured by firm, fine-grained, tannins.

90 Jeb Dunnuck: The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville offers more blackcurrants and cassis fruit as well as a touch of chocolate and espresso, medium to full body, some earth and tobacco notes, ripe yet present tannins, and outstanding length. Based on 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 2% each of Malbec and Merlot, it’s well worth drinking any time over the coming decade or more.

Robert Mondavi

Robert Mondavi Winery was founded in 1966 by winemaking pioneer Robert Mondavi, whose vision was to create Napa Valley wines that could stand in the company of the world’s finest. It was the first major winery built in Napa Valley in the three decades following the repeal of Prohibition, Robert Mondavi Winery created the foundation for the modern-day California wine industry. Today, Robert Mondavi Winery continues to pursue the fullest expression of Napa Valley terroir in wines that are also varietally authentic. Mondavi chose to situate his estate next to To Kalon Vineyard, one of the most coveted wine growing parcels in the world, known for producing award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and for its Sauvignon Blanc.

One of the first goals Robert Mondavi set for himself was recreating Sauvignon Blanc, which was, at the time a sweet, unnuanced wine. He sought inspiration in Loire Valley Pouilly Fumé, enlivening it with a uniquely California profile. He named the delightfully rich and refined yet bright, fresh wine he created Fumé Blanc. It’s Sauvignon Blanc, plus so much more. Released in 1968, Fumé Blanc remains Mr. Mondavi’s signature and one of Robert Mondavi Winery’s most popular wines.

The first vintage (1966) of Robert Mondavi Winery’s Cabernet Sauvignon is released. A shot heard throughout the Valley, it would inspire the waves of pioneers to follow. In time, the path Robert Mondavi cleared would lead to the creation of some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonnays, Merlots and Sauvignon Blancs in the world.