2003 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Ratcheting up the level of concentration, structure, and intensity is the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville. It offers a dense ruby/purple color as well as a perfume of creme de cassis, charcoal, smoky wood, spice box, and black tea. This medium to full-bodied, tightly-knit, moderately tannic Cabernet possesses a sweet mid-palate, and beautiful purity, texture, and depth. It should be at its finest between 2007-2020. I suppose it will always be difficult to comprehend that this winery is no longer being run by Robert Mondavi and his sons, Tim and Michael. However, their legacy of quality and their contribution to the appreciation of fine wine in the United States is irrefutable. These offerings, made by Tim Mondavi and his staff, are very impressive. Tel. (707) 226-1395 and (800) MONDAVI; Fax (707) 251-4386

Good full ruby-red. Very primary aromas of blueberry, violet, licorice, bitter chocolate and menthol; shows a distinctly medicinal austerity. Then almost shockingly supple and sweet in the middle palate, with a dominant flavor of black raspberry. Finishes with huge, building tannins that will almost certainly require a later-than-normal bottling. The 2003 Mondavi cabernets spent between 35 and 40 days on their skins, including substantial post-fermentation maceration.