Robert Mondavi To Kalon Fume Blanc 2022

Winery Background and History

Robert Mondavi Winery, established in 1966 in Oakville, Napa Valley, revolutionized modern Californian winemaking with varietal labeling and visionary techniques. The To Kalon Vineyard—acquired by Mondavi from Napa pioneer H.W. Crabb, and named from the Greek for “the beautiful”—is considered among Napa’s special sites. The Reserve tier wine leverages the vineyard’s prestige and reflects the winery’s ongoing legacy of combining tradition with refinement. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced by Robert Mondavi Winery under the Reserve tier. Crafted by the estate winemaking team, it emphasizes terroir clarity from the famed To Kalon site, integrating traditional elegance with oak-derived texture for a refined expression of Fumé Blanc. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from the To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, Napa Valley. This benchland offers well-drained soils, ideal sun exposure, and warm days tempered by cool nights—creating a climate that enhances richness, complexity, and balanced maturity in Sauvignon Blanc fruit. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2022 Reserve Fumé Blanc was hand-harvested and cool-fermented in a combination of French oak barrels (29 % new, 91 % barrel fermentation) and concrete eggs (9 %), then aged on the lees for nine months to achieve harmony between natural acidity and textural depth. 

Tasting Notes

Aromas: Clean stone fruit such as peach, along with white flowers and chalky minerals, plus subtle mint 

Flavors: Mango and tropical fruits with integrated barrel spice. Palate is fresh, lively, and juicy with good density, persistent acidity, and a lingering finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

While not explicitly detailed online, based on style: ideal with shellfish, fresh goat cheese, citrus-herb seafood dishes, spring salads, sushi, or any lightly grilled fish—pairings that complement mineral tension and layered fruit.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10 °C (46–50 °F) in a medium-sized white wine or Fumé Blanc glass to highlight freshness, aromatics, and fine textural detail. A gentle swirl helps release layered scent; decanting is unnecessary.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Reserve shows excellent balance and concentration. Expect optimal enjoyment with development into 2025–2028; its structure and acidity suggest it could age gracefully for up to 8–10 years under proper cellar conditions. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

95 % Sauvignon Blanc

5 % Sémillon