Once Upon
a Time in
Napa Valley

Black and white picture of Robert Mondavi about to drink a glass of red wine

In 1966, Robert Mondavi opened the first major winery in Napa since prohibition. Moreover, he set out with an ambition: to make world class wines in Napa Valley. Wines so fine, they could rival the best European wines. While this ambition may seem self-evident today, at the time it was nothing short of revolutionary, and many doubted it could ever be realized.

A vineyard with promise

Robert Mondavi understood that to achieve his vision of crafting exceptional wines, he needed a vineyard of truly remarkable character. Drawing on his deep knowledge of Napa Valley, he recognized the promise of To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville. Appreciating its extraordinary potential, Robert Mondavi was determined to make this vineyard the heart of his winery.

Close up image of a glass of red wine with other glasses of wine in the reflection

“Wine was a tranquil sea content to rest on its laurels until a pebble was thrown into it. And the ripples from that pebble spread throughout and awakened the entire world of wine. Oakville is where that pebble landed. And it was Robert Mondavi that threw the pebble.”

HUGH JOHNSON, MAY 2008

THE FIRST TO SEE
WHAT COULD BE

Robert Mondavi saw what few others did, that Napa Valley could rival the great wine regions of the world. He believed in wines that reflected their origin, shaped by soil, climate, and the hands that farm the land. He drew inspiration from the Old World. And also introduced innovative winemaking techniques that redefined standards of excellence. His vision helped define American fine wine and elevate Napa Valley to global renown. Today, that legacy continues. Our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a tribute to his enduring belief in this region’s greatness.

SHOP CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Robert Mondavi standing on barrels in the Robert Mondavi Winery cellar pointing to a wall of stacked wine barrels

A pillar of the Napa community

Robert Mondavi was tireless in promoting his vision for Napa Valley. He shared his advances selflessly with neighbors. Helping rally the whole region to produce better wines. He got them using varietal names (like Cabernet Sauvignon) as other world fine wines did. He travelled the world promoting Napa Valley. He encouraged Americans to appreciate food and wine culture. And he brought culture to Napa Valley itself, founding a cultural center, an art school, and even restoring an Opera House.

Celebrating the
culture of wine

Robert Mondavi believed in the Good Life, a philosophy centered on enjoying meaningful social rituals, brought to life with good wine, good food and the company of friends. For him, the true essence of wine was found in the relationships it fostered and the moments it inspired. He dedicated himself to creating experiences that brought people together, blending the worlds of wine, cuisine, and the arts. Through vibrant cultural events and a spirit of hospitality, Robert invited all who visited to embrace a life of appreciation, conviviality, and community.