Marks and reviews
Description
The estate
The fruit of a common goal, Opus One arose from the vision of two illustrious figures in the wine industry, Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild and Robert Mondavi, an iconic winemaker from the Napa Valley.
The vineyard
Opus One has become a legendary Californian wine, and comes from vineyards located in the heart of the Oakville appellation. A true "Grand Cru", Opus One embodies the excellence of two winemaking traditions that have come together to create a quintessential, one-of-a-kind and exceptional wine.
The vintage
A particularly rainy spring delayed budburst (recorded on March 27th, 15 days later than in previous years), flowering and veraison. The milder conditions at the end of the summer accelerated ripening until the harvest.
Vinification and ageing
Vatting time for 22 days. Aged for 19 months in French oak barrels (100% new).
The blend
Cabernet Sauvignon (78%)
Merlot (8%)
Petit Verdot (6%)
Cabernet Franc (6%)
Malbec (2%).
The tasting
Nose
The nose blends fruity (black plum, blueberry, blackcurrant) and floral (dried rose petals) fragrances with a subtle minerality.
Palate
The lively and creamy palate reveals a subtle acidity as well as very fine tannins. Throughout the tasting experience, the palate exudes aromas of black fruits, fresh herbs, espresso and cocoa. The finish is persistent and seductive due to its dark chocolate aromas.