Wine Leader Robert Mondavi Dies at 94

May 17, 2008 9:01 a.m. EST

Sacramento, California (AHN) - Legendary winemaker Robert Mondavi died at the age 94 at his home in Yountville, California on Friday morning.

Wine Spectator hailed Mondavi as "one of the most influential and admired winemakers in California history," AOL's TMZ News said.

Mondavi is recognized for having developed wines from Napa Valley that are on par with French and European wines.

Regarding Mondavi, his family and his many accomplishments, with "greatest respect", Joseph E. Gallo, President and CEO of E & J Gallo Winery, said his family is "deeply saddened" by Mondavi's death.

Gallo made special mention of Mondavi's "enormous contribution to further the California wine industry."