Rob Mondavi, Jr.

Years of Participation

A fourth-generation Napa Valley winemaker, Rob Mondavi, Jr.’s enthusiasm for wine began more than 30 years ago. The son of Isabel and Michael Mondavi, Rob was raised in Napa Valley and spent much of his childhood playing among the vines and barrels at Robert Mondavi Winery. Growing up, Rob worked in a variety of roles at the family winery, from vineyards to cellar to hospitality.

Fueled by a desire to learn more about the international business culture, he moved to Panama in 1995. Returning one year later, he established the Napa Cigar Company, a Napa-based importer of premium cigars from the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and the Canary Islands. Rob then left his cigar business in 2000 to join the Robert Mondavi Corporation. After one year as a Luxury Brands Sales Manager, he was promoted to Sales Director in 2001 with responsibility for developing and managing sales of the company's imported wines from Australia, Chile and Italy in more than 20 states of the US. After three years in sales, Rob moved home to the Napa Valley and took on the role of Director of Marketing, spearheading the Corporation’s trade marketing programs.

In 1999 Rob, his father Michael, mother Isabel, and sister Dina, collectively purchased a plot of rugged Manzanita lined land high on Atlas Peak and began establishing a vineyard, thereby founding Michael Mondavi Family Estate. In 2004 they established Folio Fine Wine Partners, an importer, fine wine agency and producer of quality wines that spans 6 countries at every premium price point, working with family wineries who share their passion for making great wines.  2004 also marked the year that Rob was appointed President of Winemaking for MMFE, a role that has enabled him to return to his first passion of growing grapes and making wine under the Isabel Mondavi, Emblem, Animo, and “M” by Michael Mondavi labels. 

Rob holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature from Santa Clara University and is a current Board Member of Winegrowers of Napa County. An avid duck hunter and fly fishing enthusiast, Rob resides in the Napa Valley with his wife, Lydia, and their two sons.