Research & Development

Robert Mondavi Winery has applied innovative research and development processes in matching rootstocks with soil to enhance wine quality.

Rootstock, Clonal, and Spacing Trials

The 31-acre To Kalon Vineyard H block at Robert Mondavi Winery is dedicated to the study of Cabernet family varieties. In 2005, the winery began what is planned as a 10-year, $10 million program of replanting and vineyard improvements at the historic To Kalon Vineyard.

Spacing

Until the mid-1980s, standard California vineyard spacing was 8 feet by 12 feet. In the European-style high-density format (4’x4’), vines are forced to compete with each other for sustenance, resulting in lower yields, smaller berries, and more intense fruit flavors. In the To Kalon Vineyard, Robert Mondavi Winery has more high-density plantings than any other California winery.