Opus One

“Wine is born, then it lives. But it never dies, in man it lives on.”

Baron Philippe de Rothschild

Opus One Winery, in Napa Valley, California, is a celebrated collaboration between two wine legends. Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux joined forces with Robert Mondavi, an influential Napa Valley vintner. Established in 1978, the winery represents a fusion of old-world and new-world winemaking traditions. Its goal is to craft a Bordeaux-style blend that embodies elegance, complexity, and longevity.

Origins & History

The idea for Opus One emerged in the late 1970s when Robert Mondavi met Baron Philippe de Rothschild. Mondavi, renowned for promoting California wines, teamed with Rothschild, an expert in Bordeaux winemaking. Their collaboration marked a milestone by blending Bordeaux tradition with Napa Valley innovation. The winery’s first vintage, in 1979, earned international acclaim as a “Californian First Growth.”

Vineyards and Terroir

Opus One’s vineyards span approximately 170 acres, primarily planted with classic Bordeaux varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The vineyards are meticulously managed to ensure low yields and high-quality grapes. Located in the Oakville sub-appellation of Napa Valley, the terroir benefits from a combination of gravelly, well-drained soils, a Mediterranean climate, and diverse microclimates, all of which contribute to the complexity and balance of the wine.

The Wine

Opus One produces a single proprietary wine each year, which is a Bordeaux-style blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is known for its deep colour, complex aromas, and rich, layered flavors. Typically, it exhibits notes of dark fruits like blackberry and cassis, complemented by hints of violet, tobacco, and spice. The palate is characterized by velvety tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, elegant finish. Opus One is designed to age gracefully, with the potential to develop further complexity over decades.

Recognition and Influence

Since its inception, Opus One has consistently garnered high praise from critics and wine enthusiasts alike, thereby solidifying its status as a benchmark for quality in Napa Valley and the global wine world. Moreover, its limited production and meticulous attention to detail further enhance its appeal among collectors and connoisseurs.

Additionally, the winery, located in Oakville, stands as a testament to the brand’s grandeur and sophistication. Its architectural design seamlessly blends traditional and modern elements, creating an atmosphere of luxury. Furthermore, Opus One offers exclusive tours and tastings, providing guests the opportunity to explore the vineyards, tour the cellar, and sample their acclaimed wines.

Legacy and Future

Opus One Winery stands as a powerful symbol of the successful collaboration between old-world tradition and new-world innovation. The legacy of Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi endures through each bottle, showcasing their unwavering dedication to excellence and passion for winemaking. Furthermore, as it looks to the future, Opus One continues to prioritize sustainability and quality, ensuring its esteemed reputation endures for generations to come.

Moreover, Opus One is a beacon of winemaking mastery, embodying the spirit of collaboration and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Its wines are celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and remarkable aging potential, solidifying its status as a treasured icon in the world of fine wine.