Self-proclaimed as the region’s ‘best-loved winery’ (well… since when have the Californians done bashful?), the Napa Valley vineyard was the first major one built in the state. So does experience win out over the ever-growing army of young pretenders to the throne?

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I sampled one red and one white – the Robert Mondavi Private Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2008. Even as a huge Sauvignon Blanc fan, this one really shone. It was beautiful and crisp with just a hint of green colour and really fresh citrus flavours.

A real winner, especially if you’re at a long function – it’s really quaffable.

The red – a Robert Mondavi Private Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 – had a fantastic deep fruity aroma and a beautiful rich red colour in the glass. The flavour was of velvety chocolate and plums without being over-rich – it still rested quite lightly on the palate compared to many Cabernet Sauvignons, which was a really refreshing change.

Maybe it’s the undeniable fact that a wine with the inscription ‘private selection’ on the label gives you a little frisson of importance. Maybe it’s the years of experience that go into growing, fermenting, aging and producing these wines. Whatever it is, it works.

Just as they were no doubt enjoyed at their native Thanksgiving a few weeks ago, both wines would make a great partnership for your Roast Turkey on Christmas Day. Both are available at Tesco Stores for £9.99 – which I think is a complete steal for this level of quality. My advice would be grab them before they sell out.

www.robertmondaviwinery.com