Washington, D.C. – Last week, U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) introduced a resolution to honor the life of Robert Mondavi, a pioneer of the California wine industry who passed away in May at the age of 94. Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA) introduced a companion resolution in the House.
Senator Boxer said, “Those who knew Robert Mondavi recognized him as a uniquely passionate and brilliant man. He took pride in promoting California wines worldwide and advocating causes that he held close to his heart. His work will be remembered fondly by all those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed in the Napa Valley and in California.”
“Robert Mondavi is a name that will forever be associated with great California wine. He was a winemaking pioneer who showcased California’s ability to make world-class wines. He dedicated his life to being an ambassador for California wine and food and proved that Napa Valley wines could compete on the international stage,” Senator Feinstein said. “He will be missed.”
Congressman Thompson said, “Robert Mondavi was without question one of the true pioneers of the California wine industry. Were it not for his foresight and determination, the Napa Valley would not be what it is today. Robert was not only an extraordinary winemaker and businessman; he was a pillar of our community. His legacy can be found throughout Northern California, from COPIA to the Mondavi Center at UC Davis, from the Napa Valley Wine Auction charitable giving to his work on land stewardship and habitat preservation. His passing leaves a void that cannot possibly be filled. He was a wonderful friend and I will miss him greatly.”
The resolution recognizes Mondavi’s many achievements, including the establishment, in 1965, of the Napa Valley winery that bore his name and helped bring visibility and acclaim to California wine, the innovative techniques he brought to wine production, as well as his commitment to philanthropy.
Mondavi was just a month away from his 95th birthday. He had a good, long life that had more than its share of soaring triumphs and deep disappointments. Kudos to Feinstein, Boxer and Thompson for promoting this well-deserved recognition.
