Tribute to Robert Mondavi

On May 16, we lost an extraordinary leader in the world of wine, legendary American vintner Robert Mondavi.

One of the many important lessons Mr. Mondavi taught us was to always be there to help a neighbor, a friend, our community or beyond. He was one of the most kind and generous people we’ve ever known. One of the original founders of both the Napa Valley Vintners non-profit trade organization in 1944 and its community fundraiser, Auction Napa Valley, in 1981, Mr. Mondavi set the standard by which all Napa Valley vintners strive to operate: making wines that are among the best in the world and using their resultant status to raise money to support charitable causes.

We are all beneficiaries of Robert Mondavi’s vision, his generosity, his warmth of spirit and his joy for life, and in tribute, we invite wine lovers from anywhere in the world to share a remembrance of the man and his accomplishments as a vintner, a Napa Valley ambassador, a supporter of his community, a patron of the arts and a friend to many.





		8/1/2008 4:44:26 AM

	“I came to stay with my best friend, who lives in San Francisco and we took a day trip to the Napa Valley. My friend had picked out 4 or 5 wineries that she had tried and loved for me to enjoy too. One of them was Robert Mondavi's; we had a fabulous time and I am saddened to hear of his death. However, his enthusiasm for his produce was obvious from the staff that work there and it contributed to a memorable time for me on my trip. That alone assures me that his work will continue to lead the way in the world of wine. I hope to make a return visit to the Napa Valley in the next year and will definitely include a return visit to the Mondavi winery. My condolences and warm regards go out to his family and all staff who work for him. God bless. X”


		- Ms Satwant Bhambra





		7/26/2008 1:02:54 AM

	“After visiting many wineries in Napa Valley and visiting Copia, I finally had the chance to visit Robert Mondavi Winery this past Wednesday (July 23,2008) I have always had so much respect for the Mondavi family for what they have done for California Wine. I will always hold Robert Mondavi as the "Father" of California Wine. I am so grateful for his many accomplishments!”


		- Paul Letourneau, Manager, Trader Joe's





		7/25/2008 4:04:18 PM

	“A true loss. He was so kind to me and my family, stepping in with support in a time of need, and always a joy to be with. My condolences and love to his family.”


		- David Ingham





		7/10/2008 6:06:42 PM

	“so good wines”


		- elfego lassard, thanks mr mondavi, lorenzillos





		7/5/2008 9:02:55 AM

	“I came into the wineries to facilitate teamwork and process streamlining just about the time that Robert stepped down from line management and took his place on the Board. His incredible leadership was legendary among his staff throughout the company. Personal stories of his greatness, vision, kindness, and generosity abounded everywhere. So intense was the love and loyalty for him, it would be difficult for anyone to ever effectively step into his shoes in the eyes of his staff. His presence when he came through for lunch or a meeting was absolutely the high point of everyone's day. His very presence created the atmosphere of "family" throughout the winery, as well as the corporate conscience for excellence and elegance. While he will be sadly missed by everyone, he is also the kind of personality that never really leaves our souls. The quality of who he was is alive and well on a daily basis in the hearts and memories of all who knew him. I count myself blessed to have been able know him to share in his incredible American dream. Warmest condolences to his family and friends.”


		- Cheri Douglas, President, Positive Impact Consulting





		7/1/2008 9:29:11 AM

	“We had the great pleasure of visiting the winery you created for the first time this year. Through the atmosphere and employees we could feel and understand the passion and fulfillment that was put into your creation. I hope this never changes and that your legacy lives on. Well Done! God Bless.”


		- Italian Friends from Canada





		6/29/2008 9:09:46 AM

	“Sincere sympathy on your loss. He will be missed by all.”


		- Marion williams, friend





		6/28/2008 4:40:54 PM

	“ When I was 35 I was undecided what to do with my life. I wanted to go back to school, but thought I might be too old to start over. I read "Harvests of Joy" and immediately realized what a silly notion that was. If Bob Mondavi could start a over with a new winery at 55, I could certainly obtain my much smaller goals. My husband knew how much I admired Robert Mondavi and through his job as a grocery manager arranged a wine tour and lunch at the Mondavi winery. During our lunch, Robert and Margrit walked in and sat at their table. Even though I was nervous, I was resolved to tell him how much he inspired me to reach my goal of completing my education. I walked up to him and he was so kind and told me to never give up, that I could do anything I set my mind to achieving. He posed for pictures and signed my Harvest of Joy book that I had brought along for the occasion. I am proud to say that because of Bob Mondavi's inspiration, I graduated from law school last year and have realized the goal I thought unattainable. Thank you so much for your inspiration, I will remember your fortitude for the rest of my life. Rest in peace.”


		- Colleen Gilchrist, Oregon





		6/28/2008 4:40:53 PM

	“Robert Mondavi: While your body lay at peace, your spirit lives within those whom you’ve touched, inspired and blessed with your fine wine, generosity and brilliant wisdom. May those who cherish you live with the echo of your inspiring voice as they drink your wine and celebrate your life! Brenda Kays LMT”


		- Brenda Kays, Licensed Massage Therapist, Serenity N Massage





		6/27/2008 12:12:29 AM

	“My friend Cath and I met Robert Mondavi in Burma 4 or 5 years ago on what was to be a trip up the Irrawadi. Unfortunately the river was silted up and we were stuck on the boat for 4 days with nowhere to go! What made my trip in particularly was meeting Robert and his lovely wife they were so enchanting. My friend and I could not believe his energy walking around the many amazing places in the fierce heat. We left at the airport and felt we had left a friend behind. God bless you - so may memories”


		- Mrs Pauline Barber, Proprietor, Clarence House Hotel, Dalton in Furness, England





		6/25/2008 3:41:41 PM

	“To the most wonderful employer I've ever had the priviledge of working for. Your integrity and style will live on forever.”


		- Karen Dias, One Time Employee at Robert Mondavi Winery





		6/23/2008 10:55:40 PM

	“In 2004, my husband, myself and my parents had the honour of meeting Mr. Robert Mondavi and his lovely wife Margrit during the summer of his 90th birthday. We will always remember his kindness and warmth that beautiful afternoon. His generous spirit was as apparent then and it will continue to live on in beautiful Napa. Mr. Mondavi and his family have touched all our lives, from his beautiful vineyards, to the vineyards and winemakers he has influenced to the beautiful mix of wine culture and art of Copia. We look forward to continuing to experience the beauty of Napa every year, but we will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. May each passing day make his loss a little easier and his lovely memories stronger. Sincerely, Monica and Michael Giordano Gilbert, Arizona”


		- Monica and Michael Giordano





		6/21/2008 6:20:35 AM

	“We had the pleasure of meeting Robert and his family in July 28 1995 on the International Hotels program. My daughter and myself had a unforgettable week at your winery. Our condolence to his lovely wife Margrit and family. Mrs Elisabeth Claessens and daughter Josette from Holland. The Netherlands”


		- Mrs.E.Claessens, Internationel Hotels





		6/20/2008 7:43:01 PM

	“I'm so sorry for your loss. I came across this notice of passing as I was researching tours of the winery. You see, my husband died February 11 of this year after 26 years of marriage and three teenaged children. My husband and I had happened upon the winery about five years ago while visiting Napa Valley from our home in Kingwood, TX. It was the only winery open on that day of the week--perhaps Sunday or Monday?--and the only one still open at five o'clock in the afternoon. We pulled into the parking lot and barely made it for the last tour of the day. It was a beautiful setting. As I recall, we started out in a sort of art gallery and then progressed into the vineyards followed by a tasting room. Anyway, I am planning a trip in July with our children to see show them a beautiful place and--for me--to recall a wonderful time with my husband. Thank you for the memories and here's to a memorable visit for us. Again, my condolences.”


		- Sherri Andrews, bcandrews@embarqmail.com





		6/18/2008 2:50:35 PM

	“Robert was truly an amazing man and inspiration to us all...”


		- Michelle Mandro, family friend





		6/18/2008 11:07:26 AM

	“I just read on the website of Robert's passing. Though I am only patron of the winery and the fine wine, I am saddened by the news. My family has often enjoyed the tour and grounds of the beautiful winery. It is a favorite to bring our Norwegian and other out of area family. Margrit has been our guide on two occasions and treated us very graciously even to the extent of hosting us a fine bottle of Cabernet Savignon. What a wonderful contribution he and his family have made to our region. I did not him personally, but in our hearts this Bay Area icon will be missed. Our condolences to all family and staff. Sincerely, Sonnie Tandberg Concord, Ca.”


		- Sonnie Tandberg, Patron, Public





		6/18/2008 12:08:13 AM

	“God bless you Bob. Our sincere condolences to Margrit, Michael, Tim and Marcia. Love Jenny and John Horgan.”


		- Jenny and John Horgan., Owners Salitage Wines Pemberton Western Australia





		6/17/2008 9:15:28 PM

	“"This is Bob Mondavi, can I have two mochas, 2 lattes and a plain black coffee? Thanks!" He was always kind and courteous...even when ordering a coffee on the phone from Oakville Grocery! What a deliteful man! We'll miss you Bob! ”


		- Kerry





		6/17/2008 1:05:01 PM

	“I was 21 when I bought my first bottle of wine,...living with my grandmother in Waimanalo, Oahu. On my way home from a long day at school (UH) and work, I stopped by Safeway to buy a bottle of Woodbridge White Zinfandel, some grapes (red & green), brie, and crackers. Although I was working as a bus station stocker & runner at John Dominis restaurant, I knew absolutely nothing about wine. I was blown away. My eyes and palate became to open to the world of wine,....I began to learn how to enjoy the tastes of foods, and the endless combinations of pairings. And as I sat on my grandmother's living room floor at a little past midnight, propped up with couch cushions, watching "The King and I" for the first time, I was introduced to so much more. I began to understand the necessary balance between hard work and peaceful unwind. It was in that moment I started to understand life. Thank you Mr. Mondavi. I never knew you, but I've benefited from your life's work in ways many in this world will struggle to understand. I wish I could have known you.”


		- Alika Hollister, Sales Manager - San Francisco, Natura, Inc. - NaturaWater





		6/15/2008 4:42:49 PM

	“Tough love made you tough and made you into the person you were and what is left behind...great wine and great history.”


		- Adriana Abell, Registered Dental Hygienist, Dr.Bradley olson D.D.S





		6/15/2008 11:06:39 AM

	“mr mondavi, you were a true inspiration to us all and a credit to your family, your profession and to us all”


		- mrs j. coker, mrs





		6/12/2008 10:16:48 PM

	“I have never met Mr. Mondavi. However I have visited the winery on several occasions. Everytime I visit the winery, I take pictures and buy a bottle. Even though I am a novice wine taster, I will learn to aquire the taste. I respect him because of his great accomplishments, to grow and bring great wine to everyone. My father speaks highly of his wine. I always treasure each visit. I am actually planning a trip this weekend to bring my friends up there to visit and I am saddened to hear about his death. My condolences to the Mondavi family. ”


		- Stanton Yen





		6/12/2008 9:22:17 PM

	“To a True Pioneer with such great heart and spirit. You fertilized the American Wine Industry and now we can all see how your contributions have made this wine industry grow and produce such beautiful wines that we can enjoy and be proud of.”


		- Glenda McDaniel





		6/12/2008 2:09:38 PM

	“ " Salute "”


		- Gregory Werbrich





		6/11/2008 7:57:11 PM

	“ Our sincere condolence to the Michael Mondavi family. Robert, Lil Marie and Lilmarie Birr”


		- bobandlil@sbcglobal.net





		6/10/2008 1:15:34 PM

	“I never had the honor of meeting Mr Mondavi, but I have met a number of people who knew him and he was always spoken of with respect and gratitude for his efforts. My condolences to the Mondavi family. Mr. Mondavi, I toast to your memory and to all you have done for California wines and those who enjoy them. May your next Opus be as incredible as the first. ”


		- Ron Wolfe, wine lover, customer, admirer, Belmont, CA





		6/9/2008 9:39:55 AM

	“On behalf of the Napa County Farm Bureau membership we would like to extend our condolences and deepest sympathies. Robert Mondavi's remarkable life has affected the wine community with his generosity, passion and love of life. His inspiration and vision will continue to guide the wine industry for years to come.”


		- Peter Nissen, President, Napa County Farm Bureau





		6/8/2008 6:04:47 PM

	“Our condolences to the Mondavi family and the Napa Valley community on the loss of this great man”


		- Tom Wayne





		6/8/2008 9:19:03 AM

	“I am a missionary in Guatemala, but a native of California, and just here on vacation. I was unaware of Robert Monavi's death until today, 8 of June, but wish to offer my condolences to the family and offer my prayers for the deceased. After reading the obituary and his wise sayings and his many accomplishments, it is clear to me that he was a person of great vision and heart to benefit others. May God give him his just reward and help us all to follow his example. ”


		- Timothy Conlan, Father, Western Dominican Province





		6/6/2008 11:46:09 AM

	“I met Mr. Mondavi when I was working as a host at Stars Oakville cafe in 1996. There was a picture on the wall of him wearing a dinner jacket made of corks. I asked him about it and he recalled a cute story about a kid who saw the picture and remarked," Hey why is that guy wearing a bunch of beer cans ? " We both had a laugh, and I realized how down to earth and heartwarming this man is.”


		- Christopher Sullivan, Concierge, Culinary Institute of America at Greystone





		6/6/2008 12:00:15 AM

	“Vintner's Repose: In memory of Robert Mondavi This grateful moment of dignity To pause and reflect Life grand and expansive Autonomous Creating the future each day as we say it will be The warmth of sunrise and amber days Fragrant with freedom Fulfilled Our home in earth's bounty sweet Napa The sunset beckons The wind rustling To settle the day Caring and faith beyond reason or knowing Oh how you soothe generous Nature of enduring strength Elation - anticipation Enchanting tamed grape Rousing the kinship and grace of man We salute his life's vision as the last blackbird flies His heart hands and mind Now our hope in a bottle With gratitude for his many contributions, E. Kasel, June 2008 ”


		- E. Kasel





		6/5/2008 7:28:27 PM

	“Mr. Mondavi,You where a Class act ! We will miss you and never forget your kindness...”


		- Philippe Jeanty





		6/5/2008 9:56:36 AM

	“Bob Mondavi was not only an inspiration - a master of the "big picture" - but he was unfailingly supportive and attentive to the "little guys", too. When I was new in the wine business, he and Margrit always made time to encourage and mentor - and of course, take advantage of every opportunity to have fun! To say we will miss him is a monumental understatement.”


		- Cathy Clifton





		6/4/2008 11:46:34 AM

	“Bob, Your strong spirit continues throughout the Napa Valley and the world. You have forever changed both for the better, and in so doing, changed us too. We love you, Bob.”


		- Shari Staglin, owner, Staglin Family Vineyard





		6/3/2008 10:54:58 PM

	“I have visited Napa Valley several times, and that's why I love California wine since then. Bob, you are not only the pioneer of making great wine in Napa, but the pioneer in winery tourism. I owe you, and I miss you very much. RIP.”


		- Andy Matsubara, Yokohama Japan





		6/3/2008 10:09:58 PM

	“Robert was always a generous and caring man to those who expressed an interest in wine. I remember our lunch with Robert and Margrit that we won by a "casual" wave of a paddle at the NVWA. He came over to give me a hug and I had my paddle in my hand. As I wrapped my arms around this great man, my paddle waved in the air and Ursula grounded the gavel and said that I had "won" the bid. Robert was so caring; he said I am so sorry and I will split this with you. I said "Are you kidding?" We loved the lunch and the forever relationship that ensued with this great man. We will miss him but his presence will never be lost in a great event that he created.”


		- Sheryl Root Hyler





		6/3/2008 6:40:48 PM

	“One of my greatest pleasures in life has been the opportunity and privilege to know Bob Mondavi. Over the years we worked, traveled and shared ideas and wine freely . . . just as he did with so many of my generation. Our industry has many pioneers but far too few true visionaries . . . Bob Mondavi was both. When I heard of his passing I chose to smile thinking of all his marvelous contributions and the inspiration that he had been to me . . . but now his memory brings tears to my eyes. So I guess I'll just raise a glass of Reserve Cabernet in his memory. God Bless Bob!”


		- BOB CRANSTON, VP - National Distributor Sales, Riedel Crystal USA





		6/2/2008 7:05:45 PM

	“I'm very appricetive of the fact that I was lucky enough to attend a vip tour of Mondavi and Opus One and was made aware of what Robert would refer to as Wine and Life style. As a result of that exposure we have continue to live "the lifestyle" he proposed and are forever grateful to this wonderful, grateful and generous human being. Much Love, May you rest in Peace”


		- Art Hawkins, President/Owner





		6/2/2008 1:52:32 PM

	“We fell in love with a bottle of wine (cabernet sauvigon reserve) then when by chance we got a glimps of Mr. Mondavi at an event we just had to shake his hand and give him a kiss for his wonderful wine and for him and his wife Margit generousity with the community they live in. Then we fell in love with the man. We celebrate with a bottle of Robert Mondavi Cabernet sauvigon every little thing no matter how small. Our family has grown up around this wine on the table. It has always brought out the best stories and truths at our dining room table. We will remember the man in our house always. When we give a gift it is always a bottle of the Mondavi Fume Blanc or Cabernet Sauvignon. I only wish we would have hung on to some of that 2004. We will miss your presence in our community here in the Napa Valley, thank you for the mark you made in our spirit and in our world. Vaya con Dios viejo lindo de ojos claros. ”


		- Jill Maldonado, mother wife sister & friend, my home, my family and my friends





		6/2/2008 1:23:20 PM

	“In the erly eighties, Orbry and I were members of a small special tour given by Robert Mondavi and his wife. They were sincere, gracious hosts. We have a picture of Orbry and Robert taken at that visit.....that was when we had dark hair. We never fail to visit the winery on our Napa visits, but that original tour is one of our treasured memories.”


		- Drs. Orbry and Jean Holden, Georgetown, Texas





		5/31/2008 8:18:08 PM

	“Mr. Mondavi sponsored a Fleet Week Luncheon and winery tour for U.S. Navy officers and sailors in 1993, and he was a perfect gentlemen. He thanked us all for our service to the nation and made us feel very special with all that he did for us. I have been a fan of Robert Mondavi and his wines ever since! Fair winds and following seas to you Mr. Mondavi.”


		- CDR Richard N. Alheid, USNR





		5/30/2008 4:01:43 PM

	“If it wasn't for Mr. Mondavi, I probably wouldn't have a profession in the wine business nor would I of had the passion and spirit to enjoy our beautiful bounty. Thank you, Bob”


		- Tim Mertz, Wine Educator, A Dozen Vintners





		5/30/2008 2:38:51 PM

	“We will never forget this great man. Many generations to come will enjoy the beautiful Napa Valley and the fine wine from California. Your hard work, effort, and vision is an inspiration to all.”


		- Linda Roesler , RN





		5/30/2008 1:57:37 PM

	“I certainly knew Bob, but I had no occasion to develop a personal relationship with him. What I do remember was at a Napa Valley Vintners' meeting, if not in 1988 when I was president, then within a year or two thereafter, Bob pitched the idea of a center for food and wine, to be based in the City of Napa. The center was not a revolutionary concept, but the location certainly was. Bob, ever the visionary, saw long before the rest of us that the wine industry had to move south and engage and encompass Napa proper. ”


		- Reverdy Johnson





		5/29/2008 10:37:45 PM

	“Salute' to Robert Mondavi...the godfather of winemaking. My prayers are with his family in their loss... ”


		- Lori D., Wine Ambassador, Columbia Winery of Woodinville, WA





		5/29/2008 8:31:55 PM

	“Mr. Mondavi, I have just recently started to sell your wines in Canada, I am proud to do so to honor your legacy and carry it on in your honor. Your kind will never be seen again. Thank you for your passion. ”


		- Ian McKay, District Sales Manager, Vincor Canada





		5/29/2008 2:22:02 PM

	“I remember running into Bob and Margarit briefly while waiting for the valet and our cars after an Oakville Growers tasting at Opus One. Bob was ahead of us but graciously let us hand our ticket to the Valet first. Funny though how their car came first ahead of ours anyway. He opened the door for Margarit ahead of the Valet and asked me how I liked our Honda. I told him I'd trade him straight across for his beautiful car and he told me that we were so much better off with the better gas mileage. He shook my hand and said "You two have a wonderful evening! " You would have never known he was royalty! The most memorable and wonderful bottle of wine I ever had was an 1985 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.. He is already missed.”


		- Tom Kisabeth





		5/29/2008 10:55:37 AM

	“I offer my sincere condolences to the Mondavi family and to the world as well - a good and honest man has passed from our lives. I first met Mr. Mondavi, in line at the DMV office in Napa - I was surprised that so great a man would be standing there, carrying on a conversation with me, just plain folks talking about the weather and why we were there. That's how I will remember Mr. Mondavi - just plain folk but a man that changed the world as we know it! ”


		- Kevin S. Groom





		5/28/2008 6:52:56 PM

	“In the mid 80's I had the pleasure to meet Mr Mondavi in during a tasting and diner at Rest La Brochette/Mac Cave. The passion and enthusiasm that Mr Modavi showed for his work and his wines have inspired me in my work and in the creation of my own products. The heavenly wines yards will now make even better wines”


		- Henrik Facile, Master Blender, Liquid Innovators





		5/28/2008 6:51:17 PM

	“ We will miss "Mister", but we will also have so many great stories to tell over a glass of Fumé Blanc. To you Mr Mondavi, to your incredible life !”

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Tribute to Robert Mondavi