At a glance

Producer

Opus One Winery

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Bordeaux Blend - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$375-$420 USD per 750ml bottle (release price; higher at retail/auction)

Tasting profile

Concentrated cassis, blueberry, dark cherry, violets, graphite, cedar, exotic spice and cocoa. Full-bodied, plush texture, long layered finish.

Evolution: From vibrant primary fruit and oak-influenced spice (2023-2027) to added complexity with earth, tobacco, truffle, and savory notes (2027-2038+).

At peak: Seamless integration of fruit, tannin, and acidity, with tertiary complexity and silky texture.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus, freshens palate

Tannins

Firm, ripe, with velvety texture

Alcohol

Around 14.5% ABV

Aging potential

15-25 years from vintage in optimal storage; capable of further aging

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2036

Optimal window

2025 to 2040

Current status

Young, but already approachable with significant potential to age

Current condition

Structured, vibrant fruit, still primary but beginning integration

2028-2036 is projected as the peak drinking period when complexity and harmony balance primary fruit with tertiary bouquet and refined tannins, maximizing enjoyment for classic Napa Bordeaux blends.

Food pairing

Best with prime rib, dry-aged beef, lamb rack, duck breast, truffled dishes, hard cheeses (Comté, aged Gouda), or mushroom-based fare.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow integration of tannins and open up aromatics, especially in early years.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Drip irrigation for water conservation; integrated pest management; cover cropping; 100% solar power for winery operations; recyclable/eco-friendly packaging; green building design; wildlife habitat maintenance; use of local labor and suppliers where feasible.

Opus One demonstrates strong, certified sustainability across vineyard and winery operations, focusing on land stewardship, low-impact viticulture, and renewable energy. Lack of organic or biodynamic certification keeps the score below a perfect 10, as does reliance on some conventional vineyard inputs. Packaging and energy use are eco-conscious, and local sourcing and workforce practices are prioritized. Global sales and export logistics add carbon complexity, but overall efforts are well above the industry norm for an ultra-premium estate.