Robert Mondavi Winery, Napa Valley

The Robert Mondavi winery was built in 1966, with the determination of one man for California to produce wines that competed with the best in the world. The now-famous Mondavi winery Napa Valley is the oldest in California's wine country and has been producing Cabernet Sauvignon since the late 60s. The potential of wines from the Napa Valley was recognized over the next several years, especially in 1976 when Robert Mondavi wines won a taste test in Paris. This solidified California on the map as a place where fine wines could be produced.

For more than 40 years, the Robert Mondavi winery has continued the mission of excellence began by its founder. Two vineyard properties are home to the grapes that make up Robert Mondavi wines. The Kalon vineyard is 550 acres and boasts some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in the region. The second vineyard is the 400-acre Wappo Hill vineyard, where Merlot and Sauvignon blanc grapes are grown. The sheer size of the Mondavi winery Napa Valley doesn’t alone ensure excellence, but the consistent dedication to winemaking does.

The Robert Mondavi winery practices environmentally friendly techniques that keep the balance between the soil and the grapes. Educating the public was an important goal for Mondavi, and this practice continues today on the tours of the winery. The winery was one of the first to offer educational tours and to talk about the importance of wine to culture and society. Culinary events, concerts, and art exhibitions are also held at the winery. The winery is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and making reservations in advance is highly recommended, as this is one of the most famous and most popular destinations during Napa Valley wine vacations.

Robert Mondavi wines include Fume Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Moscato d’Oro. Reserve wines are also available for many of these varieties. Winery tours and tastings come in many shapes and sizes, according to your level of wine interest. From the signature tour and tasting to a course wine tasting basics or a memorable twilight tour, the Robert Mondavi winery offers a variety of educational and interesting options for visitors. If you’re interested in pairing food with wine, options include an al fresco lunch in the garden, picnic options, and a course on pairing chocolate and wine.

The Mondavi Winery Napa Valley continues to fulfill the aspirations of one of the first people who believed in the potential of California wines. Affordable prices per person make these tours accessible, and knowledgeable staff ensure they are well worth your time. Visiting this winery also provides guests with a history lesson of the development of vineyards in Napa Valley. Opportunities for a wine club means that the latest wines could be delivered right to your door, ensuring that you'll continue to enjoy the wines and the education that you received during your visit to the Mondavi winery.

The winery is located in the town of Oakville, along stunning Highway 29 between the towns of Yountville and St Helena, making it an easy stop during a driving tour of Napa Valley or as a destination of its own, especially if you're staying in one of those two towns. The location is also perfect for culinary-minded vacationers because, in addition to the winery's own classes, they won't be far from the Culinary Institute of America in Yountville and the Michelin-rated French Laundry, an internationally known restaurant.