Robert Mondavi Vint Private Selection Bourbon Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

Winery Background and History

Robert Mondavi Winery, established in 1966 in Napa Valley, is celebrated for shaping modern California winemaking. Its innovative spirit and emphasis on varietal expression elevated New World wines on the world stage. The Private Selection line continues this tradition through creative spirit-barrel aging, delivering approachable yet distinctive wines that bridge classic techniques with modern flair

Producer and Wine Maker

This wine is crafted by the Robert Mondavi Private Selection team, drawing upon decades of collective winemaking expertise. While individual names aren’t public, the team’s approach seamlessly integrates California fruit expression with bourbon barrel influence, ensuring each release balances bold character with accessible structure

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from California’s Central Coast—primarily Monterey County—where cool ocean breezes, foggy mornings, and well-drained soils create ideal conditions for slow ripening. These conditions enhance balanced acidity, focused fruit concentration, and expressive flavor profiles ideal for structured Cabernet Sauvignon

Vinification & Aging Methods

After fermentation, the wine is aged in a combination of new and used bourbon whiskey barrels for at least three months. This method imparts layers of spicy warmth, vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak, enriching the wine’s fruit profile while adding textural depth and aromatic complexity 

Tasting Notes

Visually, the wine shows a deep ruby hue. It opens with aromas of blackberry, black cherry, plum, praline, vanilla custard, mocha, and smoke. On the palate, expect rich dark fruit wrapped in creamy textures, with flavors of brown sugar, dark chocolate, and smoky spice. The finish is long and smooth, carrying lingering vanilla and bourbon warmth 

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal pairings include grilled meats, roasted lamb, hearty stews, red-sauce pastas, and aged cheeses. The wine’s rich fruit, toasty spice, and velvety texture complement bold and savory fare beautifully 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at approximately 16 °C (60 °F) in a medium to large red wine glass. A brief decant of 15–20 minutes is recommended to allow the aromas and barrel spice to integrate fully with the fruit

Storage and Aging Potential

This wine is designed for early to mid-term enjoyment. It benefits from 1–3 years of proper cellaring, during which the bourbon and oak influences integrate further. Extended storage beyond that may soften the spice-driven character but won’t significantly enhance the profile 

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Cabernet Sauvignon 

ABV

Approximately 14.5 %