"Opus One wines are some of the world's most coveted. This singular mission shapes every vintage, today and for generations to come." - Opus One Together, our founders set out to create a single wine dedicated to the pursuit of uncompromising quality. The impressive Opus One Winery was not at all daunting, but rather, it was like its wine: approachable, delightful, and unforgettable."One wine of absolute quality. Opus One is the realized dream of two men: Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. 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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