1/11/2024 0 Comments Opus one wine reviews![]() The 2019 vintage contains all five Bordeaux varieties and is dominated by 78% Cabernet Sauvignon. From vineyard to tank, the journey rarely takes over 12 hours. At harvest, the fruit goes directly into the immaculate winery, where 170 acres’ worth of grapes are judged, one by one, as worthy or unworthy of Opus One. Opus One grows on four unique vineyard plots in the choicest section of Oakville: the Ballestra and River Parcels, which flank the winery itself, and To Kalon North and South, located across Highway 29. ![]() Wine Advocate gave it 97–99-higher than 16 of the last 20 vintages rated-and called it “a truly magnificent Opus One in the making!” ![]() Grown in one of the top vintages of the past decade, James Suckling gave it a near-perfect 99-point score. There’s no doubt that we are currently in Opus One’s Golden Age, and with the 2019, winemaker Michael Silacci is pushing the standard ever higher. The idea had been cooking since the men first met eight years earlier, and now-as we offer you the 41st vintage-Opus One is simply one of the great wines of the world. The impressive Opus One Winery was not at all daunting, but rather, it was like its wine: approachable, delightful, and unforgettable.In 1978, in what’s known as the Bedroom Summit, Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild cemented their plan for Opus One. The 2010 (84% cabernet sauvignon, 5.5% merlot, 5.5% cabernet franc, 4% petit verdot, and 1% malbec) was quite stunning: elegantly floral and powerfully dark, with luscious black fruit, silky tannins, and intense minerality.Īs my friend and I prepared to depart to visit another winery, we both admitted we didnt want to leave. While both vintages were lovely, the 2012 (79% cabernet Sauvignon 7% cabernet franc, 6% petit verdot, 6% merlot, and 2% malbec) was youthful, sporting bold fruit, rich earthiness, great acidity, and refined tannins. ![]() The price per bottle for the 2012 vintage is $255 at the winery, with a six-bottle limit per customer. Opus One, whose name signifies a single masterpiece, is a proprietary, Bordeaux-style red blend that is predominately comprised of cabernet sauvignon. The staff members with whom we interacted were welcoming and friendly. Guests moved gracefully along the terrace, gazing across the property, or they sat at tables having quiet conversations. The experience was relaxed, yet cultured. I was pleasantly surprised that we were allowed to take our wine up to the terrace on the top of the building to enjoy the beautiful vineyard views. We also had the opportunity to enjoy a glass of the 2010 vintage. Upon entering, we checked in with a host and were directed to the Partners Room for one glass each, at $45 per person, of the current release, the 2012 Opus One. The building is reminiscent of a museum, complete with a spiral staircase and a glass pyramid that reminded me of The Louvre in Paris. The long drive and approach to Opus One were indeed glorious, and I felt like I was entering another time and place. Today the winery is owned and operated by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, S.A. Winemakers of this historic venture have included Lucien Sionneau, Patrick Léon, Timothy Mondavi, and Michael Silacci. After the death of Baron Philippe, Baroness Philippine de Rothschild left her career in French theatre to lead Opus One with her artistic influence, direction, and vision. The 1985 vintage of Opus One was the first California wine exported internationally to France, Germany, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The first vintages, 19, were released together in 1984 as the winerys inaugural release. In 1981, a case of Opus One sold at the inaugural Napa Valley Wine Auction for $24,000, a record-breaking price for a California wine. Opus One is the result of a partnership between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi that dates back to 1979. However, I thought twice about it and decided to say yes it was the right decision. I was afraid it might be too fancy for me, as it has quite a formidable reputation, in Napa Valley and around the world. When my friend asked me if I would like to visit Opus One, I was a little hesitant. Region: Napa Valley AVA, Oakville AVA, California
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