2009 Continuum Proprietary Red
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Tasting notes
82% estate-grown fruit. The remainder comes from various sites around Napa Valley, especially hillside vineyards. 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot. There is a stronger sense of graphite in the aromas of this vintage compared with the previous ones, as well as something approaching forest-floor notes but with a drier, more desert tone to it. The palate is only just slightly more reticent and less expressive than previous vintages. There are notes of cacao nibs and even hints of grapefruit pith that bring a refreshing, bitter element to the length of the palate. Graphite notes remain with a sprinkle of cardamom and a background of dark fruits, though they in no way dominate. Quite persistent with fine-grained, succulent tannin and a generous wash of mouth-watering acidity. Lots of length. Intriguing. Distinctive. I like the structure and profile of this wine. (ECB)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Composed of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot, the 2009 Proprietary Red is deep garnet colored and leaps from the glass with notes of pure blackcurrant pastilles, preserved black cherries and warm blackberries with hints of wild sage, candied violets and fertile loam. Medium to full-bodied and built like a brick house, the firm, grainy tannins nicely frame the taut, muscular fruit, finishing long and mineral laced.
The 2009 Continuum is still in that part of its life where fruit and texture dominate, while the more aromatic qualities are yet to fully emerge. A rich, explosive wine, the 2009 can be enjoyed young for its exuberance, but the best is yet to come. Personally, I would wait a bit on the 2009. The finish is rich, layered and sumptuous. (AG) 95+
The 2009 Continuum impresses for its layered, textured personality and impeccable grace. Stylistically, the 2009 isn’t quite as rich as the 2008 but is instead more polished and refined. Sweet floral notes add an attractive upper register to the dark fruit, mocha and sweet spice aromas and flavors. The 2009 Continuum is 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot, 82% of which came from estate-grown fruit.
About the producer
Created by Tim and Marcia Mondavi, Continuum is a Napa project that continues the Mondavi family legacy. Based in Pritchard Hill, this estate winery produces elegant, mineral Cabernet blends from hillside fruit.