2017 Continuum Novicium Sage Mountain Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Novicium prances out of the glass with notes of black raspberries, fresh blueberries and warm black plums giving way to hints of Black Forest cake, pencil shavings and dried mint plus a touch of bouquet garni. The medium to full-bodied palate has wonderfully soft, velvety tannins and just enough freshness to support the generous black and blue fruit preserves, finishing with a lingering minty kick. Interestingly, the blend this year is nearly equal parts of the four varieties planted at this vineyard: 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Cabernet Franc, 24% Merlot and 21% Petit Verdot.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Novicium is marked by soaring, intense aromatics that give the wine a sense of real breadth that comes through loud and clear. Bright red cherry and plum fruit adds to the wine's vibrant feel. Above all else, I am really impressed with the wine's textural finesse, which is truly remarkable considering it was bottled just a few months ago.
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.