Opus One, 2018

Peerless and iconic Bordeaux-style blend from Napa

The Opus One 2018 offers profuse aromas of blackberry, cassis and black cherry. Elegant notes of violets, white pepper and rose petals follow and together they deliver a very seductive bouquet. The seamlessly layered flavours’ build to a crescendo of fresh and juicy black-fruit, accented with hints of orange zest, liquorice and dark chocolate. Beautifully balanced, the smooth round tannins and fresh acidity combine to create a soft, creamy mouthfeel and extend the flavours into a long persistent finish.

• 18pts Jancis Robinson (Tasted Mar '22)
• 98pts Robert Parker (Tasted Feb '21)

 Food Pairing: Rack of lamb, wagyu beef, seared venison w/ blue cheese polenta.

Cellaring: Now to 2058

Awards and Reviews

“Very deep garnet-purple in colour, the 2018 Opus One soars out of the glass with bright, bold boysenberries, warm cassis and ripe, juicy black plums notes, plus emerging nuances of lilacs, oolong tea, cinnamon stick, tilled soil and black truffles. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with tightly wound layers of crunchy black fruits, supported by firm, grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing with lifted fruitiness and on a lingering mineral note.” Parker 98 Points 26th February 2021

“A little sweeter than the Monte Bello 2011 tasted alongside initially but it finishes dry and appetising and definitely has a Bordeaux-like structure. Impressively long”. Jancis Robinson 18/20 22nd March 2022

“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” James Suckling 99 points November 2021

STORY BEHIND THIS WINE:

Opus One was founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, legendary proprietor of Château Mouton Rothschild, and renowned Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. By combining the great winemaking traditions and innovations of both families, the founders’ singular goal was to create an exceptional wine in the heart of Napa Valley. 

Vintage 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.