What an exciting time to be in Napa Valley wine country when the grapes are harvested and brought into the winery to be made into wine. Even more exciting is to be at the iconic Robert Mondavi Winery for the Blessing of the Grapes, a tradition started in 1966 by Robert Mondavi.

We were fortunate to be invited to the 2012 Blessing of the Grapes held on Monday, September 17, in the To Kalon Cellar of the Mondavi winery. To Kolan Cellar is a beautiful facility and one that echoes the memories of the great Robert Mondavi. The introductions were made by Margrit Mondavi, a gracious lady, so caring and gregarious. Winemaker Genevieve Janssens spoke about the outlook for this year’s harvest. After two previous difficult harvests, she is thankful that 2012 promises to be an outstanding vintage.

Invited guests and most of the employees of the winery were on hand as father Ramon Pons blessed the first batch of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. About 50 small bins were blessed, sorted, and sent to the fermenting bin. Afterwards, the entire staff of the Mondavi winery and the invited guests were treated to a delightful Mexican buffet that was paired with Fume Blanc and Merlot wines.

A short video of the ceremony