Picture courtesy of Continuum Estate

Continuum - Mondavi’s on Pritchard Hill
The Legacy Continues

Continuum - the continuation of the Mondavi legacy in Napa Valley.

The Mondavi family were and are a force in winemaking before and post Robert Mondavi.

While the Mondavi name is foremost today associated with the late Robert Mondavi and his namesake winery, the family with the 2019 harvest celebrated their 100th harvest, showcasing just how long this family has been making wine and more importantly that they are continuing the legacy and production of fine wine for easily another 100 year!

With the sale of Robert Mondavi winery to Constellation, we saw the founder, Robert Mondavi retire and his children embark on new adventures in wine. Tim Mondavi, who was an integral part in vineyard development and winemaking went on to found Continuum with the support of his sister. Their Tim and his family established a home on Pritchard Hill and developed the Sage Mountain Vineyard truly into something special. 

The 2019 Continuum is a beautiful wine, full of refined edges and delineation. A wine of aromatic intrigue that showcases the beauty of Cabernet and Cabernet Franc blended together at Pritchard Hill. The Franc has clearly increased in the blend over the years and continues to add a grace and perfume to the wine. Much like the Franc plays a key role in Cheval Blanc and Vieux Chateau Certan, here the Franc is the savory, complex herb garden character of Continuum with a very subtle yet alluring purple flower hue. Yet do not let the St. Emilion / Pomerol comparison confuse you, this is pure Pritchard Hill power with Cabernet Sauvignon dominate, in fact Merlot is very scarce in Continuum today. 

While Pritchard Hill is not designated as an AVA, it is regarded by most as one of the “sweet spots” of Napa Valley today. Home to not only Continuum but also Colgin, Harlan, Bryant Family, Ovid, Futo and of course Chappellet. The Mondavi Family’s expression is however, perhaps the most unique and refined that is best encapsulated in the 2019 vintage. 

Cheers,
Jeremy