Wands Limited, together with the consultant master of Wine for Constellation, Philip Goodband, recently held a number of wine-tasting events for both the public and the trade.

During these events Mr Goodband, gave a good insight about the Robert Mondavi Winery and the various wines it has established throughout the years. The Robert Mondavi Winery is recognised nationally and internationally as a leader in the wine industry. From the introduction of cold fermentation in stainless steel tanks and the use of French oak barrels in the late 1960s, to collaboration with NASA using aerial imaging to understand the health and vigour of the vines in the 1990s, the Robert Mondavi Winery has always been at the forefront of the wine industry technology.

During the formal tasting held for the public at the Hilton, Mr Goodband described in detail the flagship wine of the house: Napa Valley Fumé Blanc. Robert Mondavi oak-aged sauvignon blanc was released under the name Fumé Blanc in 1968 and became an immediate success. The name was later officially accepted as a synonym for sauvignon blanc. Elegant, with vibrant tropical fruits and mineral nuances, this wine finds a beautiful balance between crisp acidity and creaminess from sur lies aging (Note: Sur lies is a vinification term used for ageing the wine in the cask while still in contact with its skins.

This method is used mainly in France but Robert Mondavi introduced it in California. This process gives a smoky finish to the wine, hence the term Fumé Blanc).

More details about these wines are available at the Wands Cash and Carry outlet in Qormi on tel: 2123 2121/4. Robert Mondavi wines are imported, marketed and distributed by Wands Limited, a subsidiary company of the Farsons Group of Companies.