One of the rewards of writing about and reviewing wines from all over the world, is the satisfaction we take knowing that not all wines have to be a one-hundred fifty dollar, ninety-five point, single estate stunner. Since 2011, we have maintained that we write about wines of all varietals and price points with an emphasis on, "if we like the wine, then you will see it here." And the wine we are discussing today is a perfect case in point.
This is the 2022 Vint California Merlot from Robert Mondavi. This bottle was born to commemorate thirty years of the Robert Mondavi Private Selection series, which is more of an "every day budget concious" offering that is still full of flavors and attention to detail from the Mondavi winery. Raspberry jam colored and medium bodies. Aromas of black cherry, plum and whisps of campfire smoke lay a foundation to the straighforward flavors. Blackberry, coffee bean, vanilla, brown sugar and mild spices play well together, creating a satisfying wine that would be complimentary to a wide variety of foods. For those who don't drink wine with food, this would be a great place to start. This wine was fermented in stainless steel and aged in French oak barrels.
The Robert Mondavi Private Selection is a great way for newer oenophiles to dip their toe into the winery's offering and we think most people will be satisfiled with this bottle.
ABV: 13.5%
Central Coast, California
Winery: Robert Mondavi Winery
Suggested retail price: $12.99
Drink The Bottles score: 86/100
