Drink of the Day: Opus One 2018 (California)

Drink of the Day: Opus One 2018 (California)

The Opus One 2018 represents a pinnacle of the partnership between two of the most influential figures in the history of wine. This red blend from the Napa Valley in California captures the essence of a specific growing season through a meticulous approach to viticulture. It stands as a testament to the vision of its founders who sought to bridge the gap between traditional European techniques and modern American innovation.

Company History

The story of Opus One began in 1970 when Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild met at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in Hawaii. This meeting sparked a collaboration between the proprietor of the renowned Chateau Mouton Rothschild in France and the celebrated Napa Valley vintner. Their shared goal was to produce a single, ultra-premium wine that combined the best of old-world traditions and new-world ingenuity. The winery itself was later designed by architect Scott Johnson to blend seamlessly into the landscape of Oakville, California.

Product History

The first vintage of this partnership was produced in 1979, though it was initially marketed under the name Napamedoc. By 1982, the wine was officially rebranded as Opus One, a name derived from the Latin term for a musician's first masterpiece. The 2018 vintage was shaped by a dry start to the year followed by well-timed rainfall that supported healthy canopy development. This specific blend consists of 84 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, with the remainder composed of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

Review

The Opus One 2018 has received significant acclaim from professional critics for its aromatic complexity and structural elegance. According to Wine Spectator, the wine is noted for its seamless layering of black-fruit flavors and a persistent finish. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate highlights the wine's seductive bouquet of blackberry, cassis, and black cherry, while James Suckling praises its refined tannins and depth. These assessments result in an average professional score of 98 out of 100 points.

Serving Guide

Glassware: Large Bordeaux-style glass | Serving temperature: 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit | ABV: 14.5 percent

Serving Suggestions

• Decant the wine for at least one hour before serving to allow the complex aromas to fully develop.
• Pair this vintage with rich, savory dishes such as roasted lamb, grilled ribeye steak, or aged hard cheeses.
• Serve at a cool room temperature to ensure the delicate notes of violet and white pepper remain prominent.