This fall we visited Robert Mondavi with our Napa Valley class. We regained a sense of the historical significance of this winery and its founder while tasting some beautiful wines. Here is a look at their trademark Fumes from the ’07 vintage.
Robert Mondavi, Napa Valley, Fume Blanc 2007 In the nose you’ll find lots of citrus and grass with a bit of bell pepper. In the mouth it’s all oranges and a bit of zest – clean and crisp. Besides the Sauvignon there is 9% Semillon in the mix. The fermentation was 40% in stainless and 60% in barrel. The wine aged in French oak for 4 months sur lie, with battonage. The RS is 7.9 grams per litre, rounding off the acidity and creating a great balance. P&B in Oakville 14.5% purchased at the winery where it retails for $20.
Robert Mondavi, Napa Valley, To Kalon Vineyard, Reserve, Fume Blanc 2007 In the nose there are green herbs and spicy flowers with tropical fruits and a touch of toasty oak. In the mouth there is tangy citrus, a sense of green herbs and roundness, a creaminess of texture – very long and complex, very nice. The grapes were harvested from vines ranging from 30-60 years. There is 10% Semillon in the mix and all of the wine was barrel fermented. The P&B in Oakville 14.5% purchased at the winery where it retails for $40.