On Bizarre Beverage News, Mark investigates the severe decline in wine drinking among the French, and also explores Grand Theft Champagne: the strange tale of burglars who broke into Domaine Jacques Selosse in the middle of the night, and stole eight pallets of Champagne worth approximately $500,000. Then he has an extended conversation with Peter Mondavi Jr., proprietor of Charles Krug winery in the Napa Valley. Charles Krug is the oldest winery in Napa, founded in 1861, and remains totally family owned and operated. Peter discusses the legendary feud between his father and his uncle, Robert Mondavi, and talks about some of the secrets to making high-quality, affordable Napa Valley wine in the 21st century.
Mondavi Family Tree: Cesare Mondavi emigrated to the United States in 1908 and purchased Napa’s Charles Krug winery in 1943. The winery was operated by his two sons, Robert and Peter Sr., until 1966, when Robert left to start the Robert Mondavi winery. The Peter Mondavi family acquired full ownership of Charles Krug in 1976, and it is currently run by Marc and Peter Mondavi, Jr. The Robert Mondavi winery was sold in 2004, and the family no longer has any connection with it.
Links:
Charles Krug Winery—Link to: http://www.charleskrug.com
Iconic Spirits: An Intoxicating History—Link to: http://www.iconicspirits.net