OPUS ONE 2018

OPUS ONE 2018

“Extremely perfumed and floral with lavender, lilacs and violets to the sweet, ripe berries, such as blackberries and blackcurrants. Some slate and graphite, too. It’s full-bodied, yet ever so balanced and refined, with super fine tannins that last for minutes. Fresh herbs, such as bay leaf and lemon grass highlight the dark fruit. The quality of tannin is exquisite with wonderful polish and refinement. Lasts for minutes. So wonderful to taste now, but better after 2026.” – 99/100, James Suckling

VARIETIES: Cabernet Sauvignon 84%, Petit Verdot 6%, Merlot 5%, Cabernet Franc 4%, and Malbec 1%
REGION: United States / California / North Coast / Napa County / Napa Valley
AGEING: 17 months in new French oak
GUARDING POTENTIAL: Enjoy now or will cellar well up to 20 years
SERVE: Serve at 16 – 18ºC
CRITICS SCORES: 99/JS, 98/RP, 97/JD, 95/D, 94/WS

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2018 | Vintage | Opus One

The vineyards enjoyed idyllic growing conditions with consistent weather and milder temperatures in 2018. The beginning of the year was notably dry; however, well-timed rainfall just before budbreak provided the necessary water for canopy development. Flawless conditions ensued during flowering and fruit set which led to higher-than-average yields. While the season got off to a later start, veraison occurred only seven days later than the average which gave the fruit the necessary time to ripen perfectly. Harvest began on September 19th with a steady pace that continued until the last fruit arrived on October 25th.

The Opus One 2018 offers profuse aromas of blackberry, cassis and black cherry. Elegant notes of violets, white pepper and rose petals follow and together they deliver a very seductive bouquet. The seamlessly layered flavors build to a crescendo of fresh and juicy black-fruit, accented with hints of orange zest, licorice and dark chocolate. Beautifully balanced, the smooth round tannins and fresh acidity combine to create a soft, creamy mouthfeel and extend the flavors into a long persistent finish.