and year out, it has always been a premier choice for a solid Napa, California Cabernet Sauvginon. I
suppose over that span of time, I have consumed more than one hundred bottles of this California liquid
gold, and it has always been one of my favorites. I will share a little secret with you. Having been born
in Napa, California many long years ago, I have a strong prejudice toward Napa Valley Cabernet.
For this reason I am not going to tell you what I think, but rather what the real experts have said about
the 2006 Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
90 points Robert Parker: "Slightly superior to the 2005, the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa possesses
a dark ruby/purple color as well as a creme de cassis, spice box, and floral-scented bouquet, and a
medium to full-bodied finish. A strong effort, it should drink nicely for 12-15 years"
89 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Medium red-ruby. Aromas of black cherry,
currant, menthol, licorice, minerals and tobacco, plus a whiff of superripeness. Plump, broad and smooth,
with an early sweetness making this accessible from the outset. Combines good weight and freshness."
This wine is Bordeaux in style, with a blend of all five Bordeaux grapes, plus a small hint of Syrah. The
blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot,
and 1% Syrah. The alcohol is an even 15%. Its time to get out the steaks and fire up the grill!
Norm
