Continuum by Mondavi Sage Mountain Vineyard Napa Valley Red 2022 (750ML)

Cabernet Franc runs almost level with Cabernet Sauvignon in the 2022 Continuum, 43% to 45%, with 8% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot rounding out a blend assembled from parcels across the Sage Mountain Vineyard on Pritchard Hill. The estate is divided into 42 blocks planted between 400 and 490 meters. The wine spends close to two years in 58% new French oak, with a small share in concrete amphora. 2022 was a challenging vintage, yet nothing here feels strained. The nose is vivid and perfumed, mixing mulberry, raspberry and blue fruit with violet, orange blossom, wild sage and an iron edge. The palate is deep and concentrated but carries its weight lightly, with fine, cocoa-tinged tannins and a long, persistent finish. Critics expect it to drink well from 2025 for at least thirteen years, and possibly twenty. Serve it with slow-roasted lamb shoulder, a grilled ribeye, or braised short ribs.