Robert Mondavi Private Selection Rum Barrel-Aged Merlot 2019

Winery Background and History

Robert Mondavi Winery, founded in 1966 in Oakville, Napa Valley, is considered a transformative force in modern California viticulture. Its Private Selection line, launched in the late 1990s, brought Mondavi’s winemaking values—quality and accessibility—to wider audiences. The Rum Barrel–Aged Merlot is a contemporary innovation that adds bold spirit-aged complexity to New World winemaking traditions rooted in the Mondavi family’s legacy of experimentation and consumer-focused craftsmanship.

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced under the Robert Mondavi Private Selection label, the winemaking team sources Merlot grapes primarily from Monterey County, known for balanced coastal fruit. The Rum Barrel–Aged Merlot blends traditional winemaking with added flair: part of the wine is aged in used dark-rum barrels, where the estate’s skilled cellar practices integrate subtle spirit-derived character while maintaining Merlot’s varietal signature.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Grapes for this Merlot are grown predominantly in Monterey County, California, within the Central Coast AVA. These vineyards benefit from cool maritime influences, with fog-laden mornings and moderate afternoon sun—yielding fruit with crisp acidity and ripe red/black fruit character. The combination of sandy-loam soils and temperate growing conditions promotes full ripening without excessive alcohol, ideal for spirit-barrel experiments.

Vinification & Aging Methods

After harvest, Merlot grapes are gently crushed and fermented in stainless steel or neutral containers to preserve primary fruit flavors. A portion is then matured in previously used dark-rum barrels, allowing the wine to absorb nuances of molasses, toasted coconut, and vanilla from the barrel’s prior contents. The two components are blended to balance fruit-driven structure with the rum-barrel warmth.

Tasting Notes

The wine exhibits rich aromas of molasses, maple, black plum, and blackstrap flavors. On the palate, expect jammy plum and blackberry, complemented by toasted coconut, baking spices, and warm vanilla. It finishes lush and velvety—dense yet balanced, with a distinctive touch from the rum-barrel aging that elevates the Merlot into a layered, bold expression. 

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with seasoned grilled meats (especially jerk chicken or spiced lamb), dark chocolate desserts, and richly flavored dishes like coconut curry, BBQ pork, or holiday roasts. Its warm, spiced character and silky fruit profile also complement creamy cheeses and desserts such as Caribbean rum cake. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve slightly chilled at approximately 14–16 °C (57–61 °F), which softens the alcohol and frames the molasses-vanilla notes. Use a wide-bowled red wine glass to gather aromatics; no decanting is strictly necessary, but gentle swirling helps unlock the rum barrel nuances. Reseal well if saving for later.

Storage and Aging Potential

This wine is crafted for near-term enjoyment—its fruit-forward profile and warm barrel characters are most vibrant within 3–5 years of release. Proper storage (cool, dark, stable environment) may extend enjoyment to 6–7 years, but peak expression is likely now through 2025.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100 % Merlot (standard for this Private Selection variety)