Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
It's easy to get confused by all the labels of a large brand selection from the likes of Mondavi. Of course their top end Reserve sets itself apart by its $100 price point. But notable is their Oakville designate select Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. While a more expensive higher price point than the Coastal and general Napa Valley (not Oakville designated) labels, this may provide one of the higher QPR - Quality to Price ratios in the family.
As soon as we opened this seven year old 2004 vintage bottle, we were blown away by the full expressive fragrances of floral and fruits bursting from the bottle. The fruit flavors were equally robust and vibrant. This wine has much life left and may benefit from a few years more of cellaring.
Dark inky color - full body and big full forward fruit - blackberry, black currant and cassis give way to a subtle but lingering slightly sweet caramel and vanilla with hint of subtle mocha, with a layer of alcohol almost bourbon-like taste on a moderate tannin oak finish.
This was great simply with biscuits and artisan cheeses.
RM 91 points.
It's easy to get confused by all the labels of a large brand selection from the likes of Mondavi. Of course their top end Reserve sets itself apart by its $100 price point. But notable is their Oakville designate select Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. While a more expensive higher price point than the Coastal and general Napa Valley (not Oakville designated) labels, this may provide one of the higher QPR - Quality to Price ratios in the family.
Dark inky color - full body and big full forward fruit - blackberry, black currant and cassis give way to a subtle but lingering slightly sweet caramel and vanilla with hint of subtle mocha, with a layer of alcohol almost bourbon-like taste on a moderate tannin oak finish.
This was great simply with biscuits and artisan cheeses.
RM 91 points.
