2021 Opus One, Napa Valley, California, USA
The Opus One 2021 effuses seductive, dark-fruit aromas of crushed cassis, blackberry, and black cherry with subtle hints of violet, vanilla, and baking spices. Bright and fresh on the attack, concentrated flavors mirror the aromas and are coupled with an exceptionally plush, creamy texture in the mid-palate from the fine-grained tannins. Poignant notes of black tea, licorice, and dark chocolate lead to a long lingering finish. With attentive cellaring, the wine will delight for decades to come.
There are 18 units left in stock.
ABOUT THIS WINE
Cabernet Sauvignon 93%, Cabernet Franc 4%, Petit Verdot 2%, Merlot 0.5%, and Malbec 0.5%. Aged 19.5 months in new French Oak.
In 2021, the vineyards experienced unseasonably dry conditions with the second lowest rainfall in Opus One’s history. The vineyard team took advantage of the dryness to cultivate early to avoid unnecessary competition for the limited water available. Cooler temperatures prevailed, and rains in late March arrived just in time for the slightly delayed bud-break on April 7th. Warmer weather in April and May allowed for ideal shoot growth and flowering began on May 17th. Reduced water led to lower-than-average yields, which gave the fruit exceptional concentration and flavor at harvest. The summer months were very warm; however, there were no prolonged periods over 100 degrees. Harvest began on August 31st and was steady and brief, with completion occurring on September 24th.
ABOUT THIS PRODUCER
Opus One is a partnership founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Pauillac, France, and renowned Napa Valley vintner, Robert Mondavi. Producing luxury wines from its Napa Valley vineyards, the partnership made its first vintage in 1979 and has made wine at Opus One since 1991. The facial profile of the two founders is visible on their iconic label.
The essence of time is expressed in Opus One wine by the character of each vintage. Place, often defined as terroir, represents the geography, the climate and the essential human element which is captured in the wine’s balance between power and finesse, structure and texture.
Guided by the vision of our founders, winemaker Michael Silacci combines intuition and technical acumen with the dual perspective of viticulturist and winemaker. From tasting berries to careful sorting and extended aging in new French oak barrels, each stage of the winemaking process is afforded the same meticulous consideration and attention. After 18 months, the Opus One wine is bottled and held an additional 15 months until release on October 1st each year.