Opus One (2017)

About this wine

The 2017 Opus One presents a balanced bouquet of rich dark fruits, rose stems, and earthy forest floor. On the palate, it offers flavors of black cassis, black cherry, and a hint of cocoa powder, complemented by fine-grained, plush tannins that lead to a long, supple finish. This vintage is composed of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 1% Malbec. The 2017 growing season began with abundant rainfall, ending a five-year drought, followed by a warm summer with occasional heat waves, leading to an earlier-than-expected harvest starting on September 5th. Despite these challenges, the wine achieved superb ripeness and flavor development, making it both enjoyable now and promising for years to come.

About the grape

Opus One's 2017 vintage is crafted from a blend of classic Bordeaux grape varieties, each contributing unique characteristics to the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, making up 80% of the blend, is renowned for its deep color and robust tannins, providing the wine's foundational structure. Petit Verdot, at 9%, adds depth and a hint of spice, while Cabernet Franc and Merlot, each at 5%, introduce subtle floral notes and a smooth texture. Malbec, though only 1% of the blend, imparts a touch of vibrant fruitiness. This combination reflects the winery's dedication to producing a harmonious and complex wine.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Opus One 2017 is a harmonious blend of five Bordeaux varietals: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 1% Malbec.
• 🌧️ The 2017 vintage experienced a winter with the most rainfall in over 20 years, leading to healthy vine growth and development.
• 🔥 Despite the challenges of the 2017 Napa Valley wildfires, Opus One harvested 91% of their fruit before the fires began, ensuring the wine's quality.
• 🍷 The wine underwent 20 days of skin contact during fermentation, enhancing its rich color and complex flavors.
• 🪵 Aged for 17 months in new French oak barrels, Opus One 2017 developed fine-grained, plush tannins that contribute to its long, supple finish.

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.