Robert Mondavi 2017 Maestro, Red Blend, Napa Valley

For the Robert Mondavi Winery's 50th anniversary the winery created the Maestro Red Blend to honor the man who was the guiding inspiration for so many years. Robert Mondavi truly was The Maestro of Napa Valley.

This 2017 has the classic, soulful To Kalon Vineyard structure at its core in a blend that is the best reflection of the vintage. Sourcing also included the Oak Knoll District, known for producing fresh, full reds, and a hillside site in Napa Carneros, which produces beautifully ripe Cabernet Sauvignon with lovely acidity. The final belnd is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec.

Grapes were hand-harvested in the cool of the morning, then gently destemmed and crushed. The fruit for this wine was fermented in a combination of French oak tanks, for soft, supple tannins and textural interest, and stainless steel tanks, for purity of fruit expression. 25 days of maceration maximized color and flavor extraction and polished the wine’s tannins for a lush, round mouthfeel. The new wine was transferred to new and second- and third-use French oak barrels aged in barrel for 24 months to develop greater roundness, depth, and integration.


James Suckling scored this 95 points saying "This is dense and layered with a beautiful and poised combination of tannin and fruit. Full-bodied and reserved with blueberry, currant and light plum. Some chocolate undertones, too. Needs a couple of years to come completely together. 55% cabernet sauvignon, 31% merlot, 7% petit verdot, 5% cabernet franc and 2% malbec. Drink after 2022 and onwards."

Wine Spectator scored this 91 points saying "Offers a ripe and forward mix of plum sauce, crushed blackberry and steeped black cherry flavors along with dried anise and singed apple wood notes. A briary hint scores the finish, which isn't shy on grip. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Best from 2021 through 2031."