Opus One
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Blend
Napa Valley, California, USA
After a spirited tussle between myself and the Durand vs a dry and crumbly cork I was able to double decant this and segregate away the remnants of floating debris. I was immediately struck by the bouquet which was unmistakably borne from Cabernet Franc (and I believe this blend is less than 10%). It was a positive sign. The wine is completely intact and boasts ample fruit albeit waning acidity. Simple Concord grape, bruised black plum and sweet oak flavors are holding on 2 hours in. This has some time left, but not much. This is a testament to Opus One quality in the early days (I believe this was the 3rd or 4th vintage) and while I think the ‘87-‘97 era was their best, this is an profound example of an exemplary wine at age 37!
After a spirited tussle between myself and the Durand vs a dry and crumbly cork I was able to double decant this and segregate away the remnants of floating debris. I was immediately struck by the bouquet which was unmistakably borne from Cabernet Franc (and I believe this blend is less than 10%). It was a positive sign. The wine is completely intact and boasts ample fruit albeit waning acidity. Simple Concord grape, bruised black plum and sweet oak flavors are holding on 2 hours in. This has some time left, but not much. This is a testament to Opus One quality in the early days (I believe this was the 3rd or 4th vintage) and while I think the ‘87-‘97 era was their best, this is an profound example of an exemplary wine at age 37!
May 29th, 2018
A customer thought this was past its prime. That's fine, more for me.
A customer thought this was past its prime. That's fine, more for me.
Sep 10th, 2014
evidently stored for years in a garage that got very hot. Yet it was fabulous. Tasted like a great Bordeaux.
evidently stored for years in a garage that got very hot. Yet it was fabulous. Tasted like a great Bordeaux.
Dec 30th, 2022
Alive and well. There's a nice smoked meat element here along with plenty of fruit.
Alive and well. There's a nice smoked meat element here along with plenty of fruit.
Feb 24th, 2017







