Robert Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate: The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a big wine loaded with black fruit, cedar, licorice, grilled herbs and tar. Layers of flavor build effortlessly to the muscular, virile finish. Despite its size, the 2008 Reserve maintains elements of classicism that serve to balance some of the wine’s more extroverted leanings. The wine impresses for its depth, expressive inner perfume and beautifully integrated tannins. It is a showstopper from Mondavi. The 2008 Reserve is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2028. Dec 2011

Winery:  "Dark blueberry and cherry aromas combine with a hint of black olive and sage to form the aromatic base of the wine. The new French oak imparts flavors of roasted coffee and dark chocolate. Fine, ripe tannins provide structure and flow to the complex, elegant finish.  Our Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve reflects Robert Mondavi’s goal of making wines which belong in the company of the greatest wines of the world."

Wired For Wine:  They don't come much better than this showstopping Napa classic. Fill your glasses with Robert Mondavi's Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and sip them as you enjoy little plates of smoked, shredded duck with tiny slivers of candied kumquats. That ought to wake up the gorgeous fruit in this Reserve red.  Moving on to the main course, hearty meats will pair best with the creamy lushness of this phenomenal Robert Mondavi Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Beef, lamb, steak and game are just the ticket. We suggest roasting a rack of lamb which has been drizzled with olive oil and sea salt. Next to that, some rice tossed with lentils and torn fresh mint leaves, and eggplant your favorite way.  A whole beef tenderloin roasted in the oven or done on the grill is another way to do this fantastic Cabernet justice...  The secret is to marinate the beef for a minimum of 24 hours so that the flavor really sinks in.   Pair it with a creamy Gorgonzola risotto sprinkled with toasted walnuts and bask in the murmurs of delight.  The fine, ripe tannins of this spectacular Reserve will handle the rich and powerful flavors of the meal like a pro. If you're looking for a little less work, we love this Napa stunner of a wine with a short rib ragout over fresh pappardelle pasta.  Just delicious.  Hang on; we're not done yet.  Make sure you've got another bottle in the wings for a glass to accompany the sinfully dark chocolate mousse for dessert. You will most definitely want to pay homage to this Cabernet's remarkably elegant, supple finish with at least a few velvety spoonfuls...

Size:  750ml; cork
Varietal:  85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot
Alcohol:  15.5%
Ageing:  18 months in 100% new French oak
Region:   Napa Valley, California