While based in Napa, California, Opus one is is/was the joint venture between Baron Phillipe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. It has since been purchased by Constellation Brands, but continues to be operated as a completely independent entity. While most of Opus One is sold in the USA, what leaves its shores is sold through the Bordeaux negociant system, and as such, they run their operations from here in Bordeaux.
I was invited to have dinner and see the offices with the two French Opus representatives here in Bordeaux.
A good glimpse into the ‘first growth’ of California, big, bold and charming wines. All vintages are Cabernet dominant with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec playing supporting roles.
2004 Opus One
For ten years old this wine still shows as a baby. Rich, deep and intense dark black fruit aromas with touches of graphite and earth. The palate is no let down either, full bodied, muscular yet with great charm. Delicious wine now but with ages left to go. 95 points
2009 Opus One
Deep purple colour. Rich dark fruit on the nose with leather and tobacco coming through also. Mocha oak is present but is well integrated into the other developing secondaries. The palate is full bodied and super dense with dark fruit really making its push. So different in style from even the powerful wines of Paulliac. Nice fruit sweetness finishes the wine along with its fine grained yet plentiful tannins and its fresh acidity. 93 points
2010 Opus One
I prefer the 2010 Opus to the 2009. While also being a big rich boy, it felt to have a little more restraint, mainly due to being slightly less ripe (in a good way). The body is also a little less full but presents the same dark berries as the wine of the year before. Beautiful balance and a finish that lingers for a while. 94 points
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