Spirit of the Day: Opus One 2018 (California)

Opus One 2018 (California)

Opus One 2018 is a prestigious red wine produced by the Opus One Winery, located in the Oakville region of Napa Valley, California. This vintage represents a sophisticated Bordeaux-style blend that highlights the unique terroir of the estate. It is widely recognized as a benchmark for high-end American viticulture.

Producer History

The history of Opus One began in 1970 when Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi met in Hawaii. Their shared vision was to create a single, exceptional Bordeaux-style blend that merged the traditions of the Old World with the innovations of the New World. The winery was officially founded in 1978, and the first vintage was released in 1979 under the name Napamedoc before being rebranded as Opus One in 1982. Today, the estate remains a joint venture between Baronne Philippe de Rothschild, S.A. and Constellation Brands, maintaining its status as an icon of the Napa Valley.

Product History

The 2018 vintage was shaped by idyllic growing conditions, characterized by a dry start to the year followed by well-timed rainfall that supported healthy canopy development. The fruit experienced a steady ripening period, allowing for excellent flavor concentration and balance. This specific blend consists of 84 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 6 percent Petit Verdot, and a combination of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec. The wine is crafted to offer both immediate appeal and significant potential for long-term aging in the cellar.

Taste Profile

Appearance: The wine displays a deep, intense garnet-purple hue that suggests significant concentration and depth.

Aroma/Nose: The bouquet is complex and seductive, featuring profuse aromas of blackberry, cassis, and black cherry, complemented by elegant notes of violets, white pepper, rose petals, and hints of oolong tea and black truffles.

Palate: On the palate, the wine is seamlessly layered, building to a crescendo of fresh, juicy black fruit flavors accented by nuances of licorice, dark chocolate, and a subtle, earthy minerality.

Finish: The finish is long and persistent, characterized by smooth, polished tannins and fresh acidity that create a soft, creamy mouthfeel with a lingering iron note.

Overall Character: This vintage is defined by its ultimate balance of power and elegance, showcasing a brilliant, classic style that remains energetic and focused.

Review

The 2018 Opus One has received high acclaim from industry critics, holding an average score of 98 out of 100. This average is derived from a 99-point rating by James Suckling of JamesSuckling.com, a 98-point rating by Antonio Galloni, and a 98-point rating from The Wine Advocate.

Serving Guide

Glassware: Large-bowled Bordeaux 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 aromatics to fully open.
• Serve at room temperature to ensure the texture and tannins remain supple and integrated.

Food Pairings

• Grilled ribeye steak or lamb chops pair well with the wine because the fat content of the meat softens the tannins and highlights the dark fruit notes.
• Roasted root vegetables or mushroom-based dishes complement the earthy nuances of truffles and damp soil found in the wine.
• Aged hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda provide a savory contrast to the wine's rich, creamy mouthfeel.