Latest Releases: Opus One

Opus One is the iconic collaboration between the legendary Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, owner of Bordeaux's Château Mouton Rothschild. The idea was first floated in a conversation between the two men way back in 1970, but only in 1978 did it become a reality. Marrying the potential of the magnificent terroir of Napa Valley with the excellence of Bordeaux winemaking techniques, Opus One has been often described as the 'American First Growth'.

Originating in the Oakville AVA, Opus One is a blend of separate four parcels, including the revered To Kalon vineyard (North and South) that sits on a complex alluvial fan soil near the Mayacamas Mountains. Vines are densely planted to produce smaller berries and concentrate the aromas of the grape.

Lucien Sionneau winemaker at Chateau Mouton Rothschild worked alongside Mondavi’s son, Timothy to create the first vintage in 1979 which still ranks as one of the most highly prized Californian fine wine. The following years, Opus One quickly established itself as the iconic Californian ‘cult wine’. Recently distributed via La Place de Bordeaux negociants, thanks to Baron Philippe, it was sold into broader markets earlier than other Californian investment wines.

The wines are consistently receiving great scores from international critics and have the potential to enjoy similar investment performance than Bordeaux First Growths, giving the chance to any collectors to diversify their fine wine portfolios.

Opus One 2019

Abundant spring rains, nearly double the annual average, saturated the soil and provided ample water for the growing season. The first signs of budbreak were observed in the vineyard on March 27th; a full 15 days later than usual. This delay led to later bloom and veraison. However, warmer temperatures toward the end of summer accelerated the fruit’s development and maturity. Picking began on September 10th, a couple of days earlier than average. Harvest lasted four weeks, and activity in the cellar proceeded at a calm and steady.

Cabernet Sauvignon 78%, Merlot 8%, Petit Verdot 6%, Cabernet Franc 6% and Malbec 2%. Aged for 19 months on oak barrels.

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Opus One leaps from the glass with notes of Black Forest cake, Morello cherries, mulberries and fresh blackcurrants plus hints of licorice, wilted roses, Sichuan pepper and iron ore. Full-bodied, the palate is jam-packed with juicy black, blue and red fruits, framed by velvety tannins and background freshness, finishing on a compelling earthy/mineral note. Tasted as a barrel sample, this is a truly magnificent Opus One in the making!
97 - 99 Points, Wine Advocate

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Opus One 2018

The vineyards enjoyed idyllic growing conditions with consistent weather and milder temperatures in 2018. The beginning of the year was notably dry; however, well-timed rainfall just before budbreak provided the necessary water for canopy development. Flawless conditions ensued during flowering and fruit set which led to higher-than-average yields. While the season got off to a later start, veraison occurred only seven days later than the average which gave the fruit the necessary time to ripen perfectly. Harvest began on September 19th with a steady pace that continued until the last fruit arrived on October 25th.

Cabernet Sauvignon 84%, Petit Verdot 6%, Merlot 5%, Cabernet Franc 4% and Malbec 1%. Aged for 17 months in oak barrels.

Extremely perfumed and floral with lavender, lilacs and violets to the sweet, ripe berries, such as blackberries and blackcurrants. Some slate and graphite, too. It’s full-bodied, yet ever so balanced and refined, with super fine tannins that last for minutes. Fresh herbs, such as bay leaf and lemon grass highlight the dark fruit. The quality of tannin is exquisite with wonderful polish and refinement. Lasts for minutes. So wonderful to taste now, but better after 2026. - 98 points James Suckling

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