Ahead of the highly anticipated reopening of the refurbished state-of-the art Winery and Hospitality facilities in May of this year, local distributors Select Brands hosted an exquisite four-course dining experience at Mezza Luna restaurant on Wednesday, March 18.

The evening showcased the winery’s limited-edition Robert Mondavi Library pack featuring the 2013, 2014 and 2015 award-winning vintages of the reputable To Kalon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon paired with exquisite Mediterranean-themed dishes prepared by Karina Mahbubani and team. The evening’s delectable Dark Chocolate Olive Oil gateau was expertly done by Isha Mahubani.

Robert Mondavi was a winemaking pioneer in his time, curating the brand to produce exceptional wines to rival the best around the world; specifically, the Old World wines. Sixty years later, and 350+ accolades across reputable industry publications and wine critics for the portfolio of products, it is safe to say that his dream has been realised.

The Library Collection, which was presented with meticulously chosen flavour profiles to a small of group of avid wine collectors and discerning oenophiles, was met with exuberant responses. A wine selection, typically reserved for distinguished guests at the winery on To Kalon soils in Napa Valley was brought to Jamaican soil for this presentation and setting.

“The Soul of the Wine is in the Soil” emblazoned on the side of the wooden casing that cradled the six precious bottles of the library collection speaks volumes. Although the Library Collection was a unique experience limited to one very special evening of discovery, Select Brands also has a host of other wines from the Robert Mondavi Winery to be enjoyed.

The 2013 Robert Mondavi Winery To Kalon Vineyard Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a landmark vintage released to celebrate the 50th anniversary (1966–2016) of the winery’s founding. It is a highly acclaimed collector’s wine, often available as a “Library Reserve” release from the winery’s aging cellars.

A classic Bordeaux-style blend consisting of 88 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, eight per cent Cabernet Franc, and four per cent Petit Verdot with grapes sourced from the legendary To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, specifically from blocks replanted between 1996 and 2000.

Critics suggest this vintage is exceptionally age-worthy, with a peak drinking window extending 25–30+ years.

The 2014 Robert Mondavi Winery Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (from the To Kalon Vineyard) is a flagship Napa Valley red, celebrated as one of the region’s legendary “First Growth” bottlings. This vintage is particularly significant as it marked the 50th anniversary of the winery and was only the fourth time the “To Kalon Vineyard” designation was explicitly included on the Reserve label.

A blend of 88 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, eight per cent Cabernet Franc, and four Petit Verdot, 100 per cent estate-grown from the historic To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville.

On the nose deep ruby/purple colour with intense notes of sweet crème de cassis, blackberry, charcoal, and toast. Described as “smooth as a baby’s bottom and as powerful as Pavarotti”, features flavours of dark chocolate, exotic spices, vanilla bean, and graphite with a long, memorable finish with hints of baking spice and creamy raspberry.

This vintage received high praise from major critics, often cited as part of a “holy trinity” of Napa vintages (2012, 2013, 2014) and received 95 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 95 points from Wine Enthusiast and 93 points from James Suckling.

Highly age-worthy, with critics suggesting it will reward cellaring through 2040 or longer.

The 2015 Robert Mondavi Winery To Kalon Vineyard “The Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon is widely regarded as one of the finest releases from the estate in recent years. This vintage marks the fifth year of the To Kalon vineyard-designate reserve programme.

The 2015 vintage received exceptional scores from major critics, highlighting its richness and aging potential:

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 96+ points – Described a “wonderfully expressive nose” of crème de cassis, black forest cake, and dark chocolate.

• James Suckling: 96 points – Noted its “toned muscular structure” and suggested a drinking window starting in 2022.

A blend of 92 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon, four per cent Merlot, two per cent Petit Verdot, and two per cent Cabernet Franc, the grapes were hand-harvested and underwent a strict three-stage sorting process before 37 days of maceration and 20 months of aging in new French oak barrels.

It shows aromas of blackcurrant, violets, and tobacco lead to a full-bodied, concentrated palate featuring velvety tannins and a long, spicy finish.

Robert Mondavi invited us to not only dream, but also to create, share and celebrate the spirit of his vision. Get in touch with Debra at Select Brands (dtaylor@selectbrandsja.com) or your sales representatives to join in the celebration and experience the wonder of the Robert Mondavi Winery.

Offering a toast to the showcase were (from left) Tiffany Holt, regional sales director, Southern Glazer’s Wines & Spirits; Debra Taylor-Smith, marketing manager at Select Brands; Shannon McClure Delabarre, commercial manager, Caribbean, Constellation Brands; Paulina Hernández Canales, commercial director, Constellation Brands; Tania McConnell, corporate marketing manager at Select Brands; and Meaghan McConnell, luxury wine specialist at Select Brands. (Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

BCMG Insurance Brokers Vice-President, Commercial Kimm Daley (right) admired her portrait being done by live artist Ayanna Dixon.(Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

Southern Glazer’s Wines & Spirits Regional Sales Director Tiffany Holt (left) and Select Brands Luxury Wine Specialist Meaghan McConnell (centre) discussed the first tasting course pairing with Heidi Lalor, Caymanas Pony Club director. (Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

Select Brands Corporate Marketing Manager Tania McConnell (left) and Constellation Brands Commercial Director Paulina Hernández Canales (right) took further notes from Constellation Brands Commercial Manager, Caribbean Shannon McClure Delabarre.(Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

Robert Mondavi 2013, 2014 & 2015 wines unveiled (Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

The evening’s tablescape and menu (Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

Wines from the Robert Mondavi catalogue (from left), the 2013 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2015 “The Reserve” Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2014 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.(Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

First course: Sea bass paired with the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon.(Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

Select Brands Corporate Marketing Manager Tania McConnell (left) with 2025 Fashion Icon awardee, the inimitable Cecile Levee.(Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

Robert Mondavi Winery Sauvignon Blanc being poured to accompany the amuse- bouche of avocado hummus with charred broccoli and lavash crackers.(Photo courtesy of Select Brands)

The evening’s hosts (from left) Mezza Luna CEO Karina Mahubani, Select Brands Marketing Manager Debra Taylor-Smith with Constellation Brands Commercial Manager, Caribbean Shannon McClure Delabarre (Photo courtesy of Select Brands)