|
|
Article: Robert Mondavi, 94; Noted Vintner Who Raised Quality of American Wine
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- May 17, 2008
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
|
Robert Mondavi, 94, who built what is arguably America's most
influential winery by improving the once-dismal quality of
California wines, died May 16 at his home in Yountville, Calif. He
had been in failing health for the past few years and had both
pneumonia and shingles earlier this year.
Mr. Mondavi brought European winemaking techniques to the
vineyards of the Napa Valley, introducing French oak aging barrels
and cold fermentation. He also installed stainless-steel tanks, an
innovation he borrowed from the dairy industry.
An outgoing vintner who coined the term "fume blanc," Mr. Mondavi
hated the pre-1980s reputation of domestic wines, which one critic
described as "the stuff of ...