Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve To Kalon Vineyard 2019

Winery Background and History

Robert Mondavi Winery, founded in 1966 in Oakville, Napa Valley, was a pioneer in modern New World winemaking, championing varietal labeling and advanced techniques. The To Kalon Vineyard—established in 1868 by H. W. Crabb—became the iconic terroir at the heart of Mondavi’s most prestigious wines. The Reserve tier, symbolizing their premium expression, draws on this deep vineyard history and remains a benchmark for Napa Valley Cabernet excellence  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced by Robert Mondavi Winery under the Reserve label, this wine focuses on spotlighting the To Kalon Vineyard’s qualities. The winemaking team combines meticulous lot selection from the gravelly soils of To Kalon with thoughtful oak aging and blending to create a powerful yet elegant expression  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes are sourced from the legendary To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville AVA, characterized by well-drained gravel soils, excellent sun exposure, and diurnal temperature variation. These conditions foster depth, concentration, and firm tannin structure typical of classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

While specifics such as barrel percentages aren’t listed, the Reserve designation usually indicates significant new French oak use and extended aging, aimed to integrate intensity, structure, and age-worthy complexity. The 2019 Reserve was crafted with this pedigree in mind  .

Tasting Notes

The 2019 displays beautiful elegance and poise, featuring classic cassis and currant flavors underpinned by complex dried herbs, unsmoked tobacco, and floral incense-driven nuances. Full-bodied, with generational To Kalon opulence, ripe tannins, and a long, refined finish  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal with grilled or roasted red meats—such as beef or venison—hearty stews, and aged cheeses. Its structured tannins and rich fruit profile make it an excellent match for bold, savory dishes  .

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18 °C (61–64 °F) in a large Bordeaux-style glass. Decanting for 1–2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open and integrate. This wine offers longevity so proper cellaring is encouraged  .

Storage and Aging Potential

This is an age-worthy Napa Valley Cabernet. According to critic Jeb Dunnuck, it can be enjoyed over the coming 30–40 years, showing both richness now and long-term aging ability  .

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

Blend consists of 93 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 5 % Cabernet Franc, and 2 % Petit Verdot  .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 14.5 %  .

Scores

• Jeb Dunnuck: 98 points

• James Suckling: 96 points

• Wine Spectator: 95 points

• Wine Advocate: 95 points