1974 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
The fond memories encouraged me to buy a 1974 Cabernet Sauvignon from Robert Mondavi. We’re not even talking about the Reserve here; the regular cuvée was produced in relatively large quantities (50,000 cases odd?). Poured blind to my guests, it delivered…and some. Fresh as a daisy on the nose, it blossoms with black fruit, pencil lead, touches of black truffle and cedar, all beautifully defined, stylistically equidistant between Napa and the Médoc. The palate is perfectly balanced and inspired by Left Bank claret, albeit infinitely superior to anything produced in the Médoc in that dismal season. It is imbued with such freshness and vitality, skipping along as if its 48-years meant absolutely nothing. All this accomplished with a “whopping” 12% alcohol according to the label. Brilliant. (NM)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Andy Howard MW, Jancisrobinson.com
More reviews and scores
Initially a double magnum was opened but found to be excessively evolved. The following note therefore relates to the standard-sized 'back-up' bottle served instead. Beautiful, only-slightly-bricked colour. Immediate, very aromatic nose: blackberries and sesame crisps. An extraordinary simultaneous fresh-savoury aspect. Staggering energy, symmetry and beauty. A lesson in intensity with grace. A lot of grip, again; drives across the palate. Gives no sense of 'age' whatsoever. Even after an hour in the glass, the aroma sings. Remarkable. (AH)
LAST TASTED 6/94 Mondavi's regular 1974 Cabernet still reveals a solid, deep, young color for its age, a tight but spicy, earthy, herb, and curranty-scented nose, medium body, a certain leanness, but good freshness, and a straightforward, monochromatic style. It is not falling apart, but it may be starting to lose its fruit.
About the producer
Robert Mondavi is a name known the world over. The ambitious businessman created his eponymous winery in 1966 to produce world-class wines in Napa, pioneering quality winemaking and becoming a champion for the region.