Opus One 2010

Opus One is arguably Napa's most famous winery. It was established in 1979 as a joint venture between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. Their goal was to craft a wine that combined the intensity and fruit purity of Napa, with the elegance of top Bordeaux. Today it is one of the most iconic and revered wines made in California, and the world. Opus One, like any great work, arose out of passion. Dedicated to uncompromised quality, Opus One’s sole purpose is to express this vision and passionate spirit for generations to come.

Opus One is the shared dream turned reality, a testament to absolute quality in winemaking. It is the result of the vision and collaboration between two iconic figures in the wine world: Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. Together, they set out to create a single wine that would embody uncompromising quality, a mission that continues to shape each vintage.

Opus One is an expression of time and place, capturing the essence of each vintage and the unique terroir in which it is cultivated. The character of the wine reflects the geography, climate and the human touch that defines its balance between power and finesse, structure and texture. It is a harmonious fusion of nature and the winemaker's artistry. The winery itself stands as a graceful tribute to the founders' vision, rising majestically from the vineyards. It pays homage to the land and the open space that surrounds it, a constant reminder of the transcendent nature of Opus One. This singular wine is built to honour their dream and to be enjoyed by generations to come. The foundations of Opus One are firmly rooted in the vineyards. Great winemaking begins here, where four meticulously hedged parcels form the estate. These vineyards, located in the renowned Oakville AVA, include two parcels within the esteemed To Kalon Vineyard and the Ballestra and River parcels that envelop the winery. Traditional approaches, such as hand-harvesting, are employed when appropriate, while modern techniques are embraced when they enhance the winegrowing process.

The Opus One winery itself is a harmonious blend of architecture and nature. Rising gently from the earth, it seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, offering a seamless transition from the vineyard to its lush green exterior. Just as it honours the land, it embraces the light, creating an environment where great winemaking truly begins. Opus One is the embodiment of a shared dream and a commitment to excellence. With each vintage, the complex subtleties of Opus One are refined, blending tradition with innovation to create a wine that is timeless and extraordinary. It is a testament to the art of winemaking, where delicate coaxing and gentle restraint bring forth the unique characteristics of each vintage. Opus One stands as a symbol of passion, dedication and the enduring pursuit of unparalleled quality.

Opus One 2010 is a wine that captivates the senses with its intricate and harmonious profile. On the nose, it reveals enticing aromas of fresh blackberry, delicate rose petals, rich chocolate and hints of espresso. These fragrances weave together seamlessly, creating a tapestry of fruity and earthy nuances that entice the palate. Upon tasting, this wine envelops the senses with its round and velvety tannins, which contribute to a silky texture that glides effortlessly across the palate. A subtle touch of minerality adds depth and complexity, enhancing the overall tasting experience. The flavors of dark fruit shine through, supported by the well-integrated acidity that brings brightness and vibrancy to the wine. Opus One 2010 demonstrates a remarkable balance between its acidity and tannin structure, promising a long and promising future for this exceptional wine. The well-crafted acidity ensures a lively and refreshing character, while the tannins provide structure and backbone. Together, they contribute to a wine that will age gracefully and evolve beautifully over time. This vintage of Opus One showcases the winemaking expertise and commitment to excellence that has become synonymous with the brand. With its profound flavors, velvety texture and promising longevity, Opus One 2010 is a wine that embodies elegance, complexity and the potential for an extraordinary journey of enjoyment and discovery.

One of the best ever from Opus, it shows beautiful blackcurrant Cabernet Sauvignon character. A powerful and poised wine with well-crafted tannins. - James Suckling, 96 Points 

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Cabernet Sauvignon 84%, Cabernet Franc 5.5%, Merlot 5.5%, Petit Verdot 4%, and Malbec 1%
Country - United States
Region - Napa Valley, California
Vintage - 2010
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14.5%
Closure - Cork