Wow, Mondavi’s top red wine is very impressive in 2021, all svelte but muscular and built for long-term enjoyment. A bit richer and more layered than the 2018 and 2016, and the signature sage character is subdued here. Showing great black fruit and flowers with integrated oak spices on the nose, the tannins building as you sip, black cherries, blackcurrants, cocoa and light graphite showing on the palate. So smooth and full-bodied but not heavy, lifted by fresh acidity and very fine-grained tannins. From organically grown grapes. Bottles from the 1990s are still great to drink, so no hurry to open it. Try from 2028.
Wine Spectator Review - Rated 95:
This is lush and seductive in feel, with a gush of boysenberry and blackberry compote flavors that rolls through, along with melted black licorice, mocha and Christmas pudding accents. A flash of warm paving stone at the tail end keeps this grounded, and a charming purity emerges as this airs in the glass. Best from 2025 through 2040.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Review - Rated 93:
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard Reserve is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon (Clones 4, 31 and 337) and 3% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Like the red blend, it spent 20 months in 100% new French oak. Subtle tobacco and cigar box shadings accent black cherries and cassis on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is rich and velvety, showing ample length on the finish.
