His vision touched the lives of all of us who live in this valley, and on Sunday hundreds gathered at the Robert Mondavi Winery to celebrate its founding in 1966. The outdoor event was the culmination of Taste3, a three-day event that drew luminaries from the food, wine, education and entertainment fields.

The celebration was meant to remind all "how one man, his family and this place have transformed us," said Jean-Michel Valette, chairman of the Oakville wine operation.

"Most of us have seen the twinkle in those eyes -- friendly, but also challenging," he noted as the 93-year-old founder watched from the side of the stage erected for the day's entertainment. "The twinkle in those eyes changed the world of wine."

"He awakened the world to the wonder of California and Napa Valley wines," declared Chris Fehrnstrom, president of Icon Estates, the fine wine division of Constellation Brands, which purchased the Mondavi wine business in December of 2004.

"Robert Mondavi's quest for excellence is still the core fabric of this winery. In combining wine, food and the arts, he set the ideals by which we live today."

"He gave passion to those who work here," added director of winemaking Genevieve Janssens.

"Bob was right -- (Napa Valley winemakers) can make wine that belongs in the company of the great wines of the world," observed the honoree's wife, Margrit. "He was convinced of that when he built this winery 40 years ago. And you see today his dreams have come true. And as Bob would say to all of you who have come to help us celebrate, 'Cent'Anni!'" ("Here's to another 100 years.")