This second vintage of a Bordeaux styled blend made in tribute to founder Robert Mondavi features bold menthol aromas and flavors at this point in its development, and there is a fair amount of new oak evident. That said, there’s plenty to like here, both now and for the future. Blackberry and currants are beginning to show through, and structured tannins will take a little time to resolve, but everything should come into balance with a little cellar time, resulting in a wine that will please for a long time. Patience is a virtue, right? I’m reminded of some of the early offerings from the winery under the maestro’s baton — they always came around. Contains 23% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot.
Robert Mondavi, Napa Valley (California) 2014
By Rich Cook