2013 Continuum Proprietary Red

Made from 100% estate fruit, and was the first year that the wine was also made on site in the Continuum cellar. 2013 was also the 100th anniversary of Robert Mondavi’s birth. In commemoration, it is the only vintage where the label includes a dove flying from the vine and the numbers 1-40-100. The 1 represents the first vintage grown and made fully on site. It is also the 40th vintage of wine made by Tim. And the 100th anniversary of Robert Mondavi’s birth. 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot. The 2013 offers richer, earthier aromas with a bit of a brooding quality. These follow into the palate with a cooked-sage element, graphite, a light mix of fruits. There is a bit of grapefruit pith, dark fruits, and tobacco leaf carried by succulent tannin, a silken mouthfeel, and good length. The wine could benefit from decanting as it is a little more intense and a little more structural but feels as though it is beginning its more approachable phase. (ECB)

The 2013 Proprietary Red Wine is a magnificent, grand Napa Valley wine endowed with superb depth, freshness and energy. The 2013 is so vital, so nuanced and so pure. Bright red cherry, plum and pomegranate fruit flavors literally burst from the glass. The purity of the flavors is just immense. I would prefer to cellar the 2013 for another few years, but it is utterly captivating, even in the early going.

Strong clove scent, heavily extracted fruit. Deep colour, high tannin, confected fruit. A wine of method that has little charm for me. (RH)