Winemaking is often a family affair, with traditions passed down through generations. Marking a significant milestone, this year a legendary name in California wine history marks its 75th anniversary: CK Mondavi and Family is celebrating four generations of family leadership and continued passion. It’s a testament to the ongoing commitment to quality, focus on innovation, and the belief that a great bottle of wine should be accessible at all price points.
In 1946, Italian immigrants Cesare and Rosa Mondavi created their line of affordable yet high-quality wines—the first to have the Mondavi name on the label. Today, CK Mondavi and Family is led by Marc Mondavi, son of legendary Napa Valley wine icon Peter Mondavi, Sr. The fourth generation is also beginning to make their own mark, and the family welcomed the first member of the fifth generation earlier this year.
According to co-proprietor Marc Mondavi, his family first set out to create a “delicious, quality wine . . . that anyone could enjoy.” And he said that, “Our wines have been welcomed to celebrations large and small over the past seven decades and continue to over-deliver. We extend our gratitude to all those who gather around the table with CK Mondavi and Family.”
Key to maintaining the brand’s hallmark high quality is control over sourcing. A good portion of the winery’s grapes come from the family’s 1,850 acres of estate vineyards, along with growers they’ve partnered with for decades. The brand also focuses on sustainable farming techniques.
Keeping innovation at the forefront, this year the winery introduced temperature-sensitive labels on its white wines. Printed with thermochromic ink, the front label changes from a light cream color at room temperature, to full color at approximately 55 degrees Fahrenheit, for a perfectly chilled glass of wine. Plus, it makes a bold statement in retail coolers.
The winery also extended its long-term partnership with the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (IFHF), which benefits the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families. The winery granted more than $215,000 to the group since 2012. Peter Mondavi, Sr. was a veteran of World War II and was dedicated to helping those who have served the country, so the IFHF has deep meaning for the company.
“Respecting tradition while also pushing forward on new winemaking, marketing and business opportunities is all in the spirit of CK Mondavi and Family,” shared Riana Mondavi, member of the fourth generation and director of chains—Western Region. “As we plan for the next 75 years, I hope my grandparents, and great-grandparents, would be proud of all our family has accomplished.”
The complete CK Mondavi and Family collection includes: Moscato, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Red Blend, all available for a suggested retail price of $7 for a 750-millimliter bottle, and $14 for a 1.5-liter magnum. Learn more at CKMondavi.com.
