Robert Mondavi Reserve Pinot Noir 2005

At 94, Robert Mondavi has lost none of his enthusiasm and drive, although much of his 'driving' is back seat these days as his sons Tim and Michael run the winery from day to day. He is regarded unanimously as 'the doyen of Californian wine' having achieved so much for the region's reputation over forty or so years. This 2005 Reserve is particularly impressive, benefiting from fabulous vintage conditions.

The techniques used here are borrowed (and refined) from the greatest estates of Burgundy and ensure nothing but complementary integration of oak in what is a wonderfully smooth, fruit-driven wine.

Fermented in open-top vats and aged in French oak barrels, this is a wine rich in black cherry and berry aromas with hints of violets and spicy nutmeg. In the mouth, the wine is dense with supple tannins, delicious black-fruit flavours and a dash of fresh raspberry on a silky finish.