Opus One is the iconic collaboration between the legendary Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, owner of Château Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux. It is considered as an American First growth. 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. Lucien Sionneau winemaker at Chateau Mouton Rothschild worked alongside Mondavi’s son, Timothy, to create the first vintage, 1979, which still ranks as one of the most highly prized Californian fine wine.
Vineyard & Winemaking
Opus One combines the potential of the magnificent terroir of Napa Valley with the excellence of Bordeaux winemaking techniques. Originating in the Oakville AVA, it is a blend of four separate 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.
What We Think
Opus One has established itself as California's ‘cult wine’. Recently distributed via La Place de Bordeaux negociants, it is now 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. Return on investment are also high. The 2019 was returning 20% within a year. The 2020 was not released, so we expect the 2021 to be in high demand, especially when receiving 99 points from James Suckling.
The Growing Season
The vineyards experienced dry conditions with the second lowest rainfall in Opus One's history. The team took advantage of the dryness to cultivate early to avoid competition for limited water. Cooler temperatures and late March rains arrived in time for delayed bud-break on April 7th. Warmer weather in April and May allowed for ideal shoot growth; flowering began on May I7th. Reduced water led to smaller yields, giving exceptional concentration and flavor. Harvest began on August 31st and completed on September 24th.
Opus One 2021's Scores
This year's blend is made with Cabernet Sauvignon 93%, Cabernet Franc 4%, Merlot 0.5% and Petit Verdot 2%. The wine was aged for 19 months on new French oak barrels.
An enticing aroma of violets, cherry blossoms, fresh blue and black fruit and great structure define this beautiful, age-worthy wine. Subtle layering of fruit and oak spices between firm, fine-grained and supportive tannins gives it a calm intensity. So elegant and polished. Hints of cinnamon and graphite accent blackcurrant and blueberry flavors that linger and grow in a long finish. Already attractive to drink, but best after 2029. - 99 points James Suckling
Vibrant, layered and quite sensual in feel, the 2021 posseses the concentration and depth of years such as 2013 and 2010 but with more polished tannins. The 2021 is an incredibly promissing Opus One - 97 points Vinous