Robert Mondavi Oakville Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Winery Background and History

Robert Mondavi Winery was founded in 1966 in Oakville, Napa Valley by visionary Robert Mondavi, who revolutionized California winemaking by introducing varietal labeling and emphasizing terroir expression. The “Estates” tier represents the winery’s dedication to combining quality with accessibility, delivering wines that reflect their origins in classic Napa appellations while maintaining Mondavi’s legacy of innovation and consistency. 

Producer and Wine Maker

Crafted at Robert Mondavi Winery, this Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is produced under the “Estates” label. The blend showcases fruit predominantly from the celebrated To Kalon vineyard benchland, with careful vinification and oak integration overseen by the estate’s skilled winemaking team. 

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Fruit comes from prime benchland in Oakville, notably the To Kalon Vineyard, which boasts well-drained, low-fertility gravel soils and optimal sun exposure. These conditions foster phenolic maturity, concentration, and varietal richness in Bordeaux-classic grapes. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2021 vintage underwent a 23-day skin maceration to enhance varietal character. Each lot was aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak barrels to achieve seamless integration of fruit, tannins, and oak. 

Tasting Notes

Aromas of mint, boysenberry, steeped plum, and black currant preserves lead the nose. Flavors feature layered dark fruit, baking spice, toast, vanilla, and a fine structure of well-integrated tannins. Descriptors also include graphite, tobacco leaf, sage, tarragon, and black tea leaf. Rich, juicy, and structured, the wine finishes elegantly with refined complexity. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This richly structured Cabernet is well-suited to grilled or roasted red meats (especially lamb or beef), hearty stews, aged cheeses, and dishes with savory herbs or earthy spice. Its balanced tannins and vibrant acidity make it versatile with robust flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16–18 °C (61–64 °F) in a large Bordeaux-style glass. Decanting for 30 to 60 minutes is recommended to soften the tannins and open up aromatics. Reseal and refrigerate if not finishing in one sitting.

Storage and Aging Potential

With its structure, oak, and concentrated fruit, this wine is built for medium-term aging. Expect optimal development from 2027 through 2035 under proper cellaring conditions.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The blend comprises 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 2.5% Petit Verdot, 2% Merlot, and 1.5% Malbec. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5% 

Scores

• James Suckling: 94 points