WineLovers Discussion Group

I just learned that Robert Mondavi died early this morning, at age 94. I worked for his winery for a year, back in the mid-70's, and got to know him a bit, and I can say, in hindsight, it was in no small part his vision and drive, and his success that made it possible for someone like me to even imagine being able to explore winemaking in the manner that I have. He was larger than life, in a way, and we're all better off for his having been among us.

Steve Edmunds wrote:I just learned that Robert Mondavi died early this morning, at age 94. I worked for his winery for a year, back in the mid-70's, and got to know him a bit, and I can say, in hindsight, it was in no small part his vision and drive, and his success that made it possible for someone like me to even imagine being able to explore winemaking in the manner that I have. He was larger than life, in a way, and we're all better off for his having been among us.

Thanks for the update, Steve. It's sad to witness the passing of one of the last of that generation of CA winemakers. I can't imagine that his last few years were all that fun, seeing all that he'd worked for taken away from him, but his imprint on the industry he left behind is undeniable.

Mark Lipton

Looks like I may be opening a Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon this weekend in tribute to a great man.

The loss of one of the true pioneers of American wine. Can't do it tonight, but will open a Mondavi CS (alas, no Reserves in my cellar).
The family had its struggles, but truly at the heart of the Napa story.

My best friend worked for the Mondavi winery during the winery's prime and was in a position close to all the Mondavi clan. She has many stories of her time there much of which doesn't show the sons in very good light, but for Mr. Mondavi she's shown nothing but praise and respect. Clearly, he was bigger than life even to those who saw him every day. Of few men can that be said.

Shame. I hate to see the good ones go. They are so few.

I edited this post.

I originally said I was going to pop a '90 PR in his honor for tonight.

But, then when I realized he was 94 I decided the 94 PR would be more appropriate. That's what it'll be.

Here's to a classy fellow!

Wow.

Steve Edmunds wrote:I just learned that Robert Mondavi died early this morning, at age 94. I worked for his winery for a year, back in the mid-70's, and got to know him a bit, and I can say, in hindsight, it was in no small part his vision and drive, and his success that made it possible for someone like me to even imagine being able to explore winemaking in the manner that I have. He was larger than life, in a way, and we're all better off for his having been among us.

I heard this on NPR as I was driving home this evening. RIP Mr. Mondavi.

So long to a pioneer and a true gentleman.

I was saddened to learn about Robert Mondavi's death. What a character; what a wonderful ambassador for California's heavenly nectar. I only hope that Continuum lives up to the man, the myth, the wine legend: Robert Mondavi. RIP Robert Mondavi: thank you!

As a coincidence, I had been planning to open the 1997 Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon tonight, and, this made it more poignant. Although, it was much better than I expected. For whatever that's worth.

The most effective and revered spokesman the CA wine industry has ever had. My wife and I were fortunate to receive an invitation to his 90th birthday party at his winery a few years ago. Bob never did anything half way, what a class shindig.
When I went to lunch at Don Giovanni yesterday( a restaurant that he attended frequently) the locals were quieter than usual. A sad day.

We toasted the life and many contributions of Robert Mondavi last night with the 1994 Robt Mondavi Res Cab,a wonderful wine, a wonderful man..

Jon Leifer wrote:We toasted the life and many contributions of Robert Mondavi last night with the 1994 Robt Mondavi Res Cab,a wonderful wine, a wonderful man..

Me, too. Cheers.