2016 Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir Reserve
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Tasting notes
Aged for 10 months in French oak. Cooked red fruit, a little bit oxidised – but there is still sweetness on the palate. Very much commercial and superficial in its fruitiness. (RH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
A layered and relatively tight pinot with cherry, ripe strawberry and smoky aromas. Medium to full body and firm, silky tannins. Shows focus and seriousness. About 10 per cent whole cluster. Better to drink after 2022.
The 2016 Pinot Noir Reserve sees slightly more new oak (75%) and offers darker fruits, spice, and smoky oak notes in a medium-bodied, elegant, beautifully balanced style. Nicely concentrated and layered, it should evolve similarly to the Martini Clone release, if not have a few more years of prime time.
Mondavi's 2016 Pinot Noir Reserve is dense, pliant and creamy, all in a style that emphasizes fruit intensity and textural resonance. Bright red cherry, raspberry fruit are nicely pushed forward. The 30% stems add brightness, but aren't especially noticeable.
About the producer
Robert Mondavi is a name known the world over. The ambitious businessman created his eponymous winery in 1966 to produce world-class wines in Napa, pioneering quality winemaking and becoming a champion for the region.