Opus One (1995)
SommeliAI Insights
A complex Napa Valley red blend with rich flavors of ripe fruit and a long, full finish.
About this wine
The 1995 Opus One presents a complex bouquet with hints of cassis and raspberries, complemented by nuances of well-integrated oak. Elegantly structured, the wine is highlighted by a supple and generous texture. Its rich, complex flavors show overtones of ripe fruit and a long, full finish. This vintage was crafted from a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 2% Malbec, showcasing the depth and complexity of Napa Valley terroir. The wine was aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels, allowing for a seamless integration of oak and fruit, enhancing its age-worthiness.
About the grape
In the 1995 Opus One, Cabernet Sauvignon made up 86% of the blend, providing the wine's robust structure and deep flavors. Cabernet Franc, at 7%, added subtle herbal notes and complexity. Merlot, comprising 5%, contributed softness and a velvety texture. Malbec, at 2%, introduced a touch of spiciness and enhanced the wine's color. This combination of grape varietals reflects the winery's commitment to crafting a balanced and harmonious Bordeaux-style blend.
Quick facts
- 🍇 The 1995 Opus One is a Bordeaux-style blend, composed of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 2% Malbec.
- 🛢️ This vintage underwent 39 days of skin contact during fermentation, enhancing its depth and complexity.
- 🪵 Aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels, the 1995 Opus One developed a rich, complex flavor profile.
- 🌞 The 1995 vintage was ideal, with a long, cool growing season yielding a mature and balanced crop.
- 🍷 The bouquet of the 1995 Opus One is complex, with hints of cassis and raspberries, complemented by nuances of well-integrated oak.
Palate profile
Producer
Opus One Winery was established in 1978 as a joint venture between Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi, aiming to create a Bordeaux-style blend from Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery's first vintage was produced in 1979 and released in 1984, marking a significant collaboration between Old World and New World winemaking traditions. The distinctive winery building, completed in 1991, features a unique design that blends classical European architecture with modern elements, symbolizing the fusion of the two founders' philosophies. Opus One has since become one of the most celebrated and sought-after wines from Napa Valley, maintaining a reputation for excellence and innovation.
