Robert Mondavi Carneros Pinot Noir

Carneros is located where the Pacific fog moves into the Napa and Sonoma Valleys daily — cool enough for Pinot Noir that combines structure and finesse instead of just delivering fruit.

Robert Mondavi recognized this region early on and is one of the pioneers who established Carneros as an independent AVA on the map. The Pinot Noir from the winery's assortment clearly reflects this cool origin.

It shows a rich carmine red in the glass. On the nose, sour cherry and plum, underlaid by dried herbs and a hint of vanilla as well as roasted aromas from aging in French oak barrels. Medium-bodied on the palate, lively acidity, and silky tannins — typical for Carneros Pinot. The finish is long, slightly spicy, with a fine wood note in the tail end.

• Food: Duck breast with cherries, grilled salmon fillet, mushroom risotto, or mature Gruyère
• Serving temperature: 14–16 °C