Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1981)

About this wine

The 1981 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley offers a rich bouquet of blackcurrant, dried herbs, and a touch of mint. On the palate, it presents flavors of tart black fruit, cassis, and beef jus, complemented by firm tannins and a medium-plus finish. This wine reflects the warm and dry conditions of the 1981 vintage, which led to an early harvest and contributed to its distinctive character. As it has aged, it has developed complex secondary notes, including leather and tobacco, adding depth to its profile. Despite its age, this Cabernet Sauvignon remains vibrant, showcasing the longevity and quality of Robert Mondavi's winemaking.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape that emerged in 17th-century France from a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is renowned for its thick skins and resilience, making it well-suited to various climates. In Napa Valley, this varietal found an ideal environment, leading to its prominence in the region's wine production. By the early 1980s, when the 1981 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon was crafted, Napa's Cabernet Sauvignon had gained international acclaim, especially after the 1976 Judgment of Paris, where Napa wines outperformed esteemed French counterparts. Robert Mondavi's dedication to showcasing the potential of Napa's terroir through Cabernet Sauvignon played a pivotal role in elevating the region's status in the global wine industry.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1981 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Robert Mondavi Winery is crafted exclusively from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, a rarity for the winery's Reserve Cabernets, which often include small percentages of other varietals.
• 🏞️ This vintage showcases the influence of the renowned To Kalon Vineyard, known for its exceptional terroir that contributes to the wine's complexity and aging potential.
• 🍷 Despite being over four decades old, the 1981 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has been noted for its youthful vibrancy and elegance, reflecting the meticulous winemaking practices of Robert Mondavi.
• 🪵 The 1981 vintage was produced during a period when Robert Mondavi was pioneering the use of French oak barrels in Napa Valley, enhancing the wine's flavor profile and structure.
• 🌍 Robert Mondavi's commitment to quality and innovation during the early 1980s helped elevate Napa Valley's reputation on the global wine stage, with the 1981 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon serving as a testament to this legacy.

Palate profile

Producer

Robert Mondavi Winery, established in 1966 in Oakville, California, was the first major winery built in Napa Valley after Prohibition. Robert Mondavi's vision was to produce wines that could rival the finest European offerings, leading him to pioneer techniques such as cold fermentation, stainless steel tanks, and the use of French oak barrels. The winery is situated on the historic To Kalon Vineyard, renowned for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Mondavi's efforts not only elevated the status of Napa Valley wines but also introduced wine as an integral part of American culture, blending it with food, art, and music.