2003 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Vine Hill Ranch
Community Tasting Note
Shay.Aldriedge Likes this wine:
Wednesday, August 2, 2023 - This was served during my annual WWC hosting. Typical format of sparkler, three whites, four reds, one dessert, all served blind.
My goal was to compare this 2003 next to the 2003 Pichon Baron. I’ve had the 2002 Mondavi VHR a few times and have been floored how good they’ve been. Read a review from WA and it said the 2002 was a spitting image of the 2002 Pichon Baron, so I figured I’d see if the 2003 was worthy of the same comparison.
Decanted an hour. Whoa! Much more Bordeaux like than the ‘02, and a touch lighter. Mushroom, pipe tobacco and fig, with mineral/graphite note on the nose too. Mocha dusted red and black berries, currant, herbs and saddle leather. At the end of the lunch, this eventually turned to a more resolved (and deeper core of fruit) with the tannins integrating beautifully. Really enjoyable. Pop and enjoy.
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Comment posted by MJP Hou TX:
8/4/2023 5:20:00 AM - I need to seek these out as I really enjoyed reading your review on wine from one of my favorite vineyards. Now if only we could find out which blocks these are sourced from. Thanks Shay!
Comment posted by Shay.Aldriedge:
8/4/2023 6:46:00 AM - No kidding! Would love to know that information. I’ve thought about contacting the winery but I wonder if they would give that info out.
I found these ‘02 and ‘03s on Benchmark for $75! Only one corked bottle, thankfully. One ‘02 left to open.
Comment posted by MJP Hou TX:
8/4/2023 7:21:00 AM - I’ll reach out to Bruce and see what he’ll share.