Robert Mondavi Maestro – 2017

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15-20 years. It is recommended to decant it an hour before serving.

Il Maestro is a tribute wine dedicated to Robert Mondavi. It was created for the 50th anniversary of the homonymous winery to honor the man who has been the guiding inspiration for many years and a real wine Master (Maestro) in Napa Valley.

The Robert Mondavi Maestro is an elegant and juicy blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc, 17% Petit Verdot, 11% Merlot, and 5% Malbec. The grapes, sourced from the Oak Knoll District and Carneros, are manually harvested in the cool of the morning. Fermentation takes place in a combination of French oak, to obtain smooth tannins, and stainless steel, to maintain fruit freshness. After 25 days of maceration, the wine moves to new French oak barrels for the second and third passage, for 24 months.

The wine has a deep purple color with ruby reflections. On the nose, it shows a concentrated bouquet of red plums, cherries, blackcurrants, and chocolate truffles, followed by notes of blackberry jelly, tobacco, and candied tomato. On the palate, it is powerful and opulent with a salty extract and firm but soft tannins. Ideal with a T-bone steak, a rack of lamb, a beef burger, or a filet mignon, it is equally delicious with medium-aged cheeses.