Region and Vineyards
The Sage Mountain Vineyard, located on Pritchard Hill, lies along the eastern ridge above Oakville, Napa Valley. Positioned at an elevation of 396 to 487 meters (1,300 to 1,600 feet), this vineyard benefits from the rocky, volcanic soils that define the site’s unique terroir. These soils force the vines to focus their energy, resulting in low yields and producing fruit with exceptional depth and complexity.
The 2019 vintage began with a cold, wet winter, followed by a long, slow-growing season. Rainfall in May increased berry size slightly, contributing to a larger crop than usual. The summer months were warm but moderate, allowing the grapes to ripen evenly. Harvest began on October 8 and concluded by October 25, about 19 days later than the estate average.
Winemaking
The 2019 Continuum is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, and 6% Merlot. The fruit was carefully hand-harvested at night to preserve its freshness and then sorted before and after de-stemming. Fermentation took place in French oak and concrete tanks, with three to four pumpovers daily during the most active fermentation period.
The wine spent 22 months aging in French oak barrels, with 66% new oak and 34% once or twice-used barrels. A single concrete amphora was also used to enhance the aging process. The wine was bottled without fining or filtration, ensuring its purity and authenticity.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep, dark ruby with intense clarity.
- Aroma: Lively and expressive, with notes of red fruit, hibiscus, and delicate florals. Hints of graphite, wild herbs, and exotic spices create added layers of complexity.
- Palate: Rich and plush, with concentrated dark fruit flavors such as black mulberry. The palate is further enhanced by a silky texture, velvety tannins, and the distinct minerality of the volcanic soils. The wine finishes with a pleasing, long-lasting balance of power and grace.
Did you know?
The 2019 Continuum features the highest percentage of Cabernet Franc ever used in this blend, highlighting the grape’s ability to capture the volcanic character of the Sage Mountain Vineyard. This vintage is both accessible upon release and built for extended aging, rewarding those who choose to cellar it.
