Mondavi excited by latest Napa vintage

Napa Valley could potentially be heading for the greatest vintage in over 35 years, according to Michael Mondavi.

The son of legendary winemaker Robert Mondavi and founder of Folio Wine Partners, Mondavi has spoken out about his hopes for a stellar year, despite the unusually cold weather.

“Conditions like these were last seen in 1974, giving us a rare opportunity to make wines with real elegance, in addition to our benchmark power and concentration”, he told the drinks business.

California has been experiencing some unusual weather patterns this summer, with coastal fogs and temperatures in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit, rather than the more normal 80s and 90s, causing grape rot in regions like Sonoma.

However Michael remained confident that the harvest would go well.

“Slow ripening produces the best wines. Sugar levels are likely to be lower in 2010, allowing us to fashion once in a lifetime wines with lower alcohol levels and great balance and finesse”, he said.

“My neighbours are concerned, but I welcome these conditions”, he added.

Mondavi also spoke of his caution in the wake of the social media craze and his desire to strengthen links with retailers and not rely on direct sales.

“Social Media is a tool for information, not selling. People are getting information from the internet and then using that information to bargain for lower prices from the retailer.”

James Lawrence, 19.08.2010