- CRITICAL REVIEWS
- WINEMAKER NOTES
Jeb Dunnuck
Vinous
2021 Opus One – A Modern Benchmark from Napa Valley
The 2021 Opus One continues the estate’s legacy of blending Napa Valley’s power with Bordeaux's precision. Situated in Oakville, the winery represents a historic partnership between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi, producing one of the most iconic California Cult Wines with a consistent record of excellence and ageability.
Tasting Notes
This youthful vintage offers a complex aromatic profile—blackcurrant, crushed violets, and cedar are layered with graphite, tobacco, and hints of cocoa. The palate is sleek and structured, showing purity of fruit and finely integrated oak. Fresh acidity and tightly knit tannins promise a long, graceful evolution in bottle.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
The 2021 blend is typically dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon with complementary portions of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and occasionally Malbec, all sourced from the estate’s meticulously farmed vineyards in Oakville. Fermented in stainless steel and aged in new French oak for 18 months, the wine is bottled with minimal handling to preserve its integrity and expression.
Investment & Collectibility
Opus One has long been a bellwether of luxury Napa Valley winemaking. With global recognition, strong secondary market demand, and critical acclaim year after year, the 2021 release will appeal to both seasoned collectors and investors. Perfect for your collection or as part of a broader vertical.
Vintage Insights
2021 in Napa Valley was marked by drought conditions that resulted in small berries and reduced yields—an ideal scenario for concentration and structure. Opus One's precision in vineyard management paid off, producing a wine of clarity, depth, and refinement. Early reviews suggest it will rank among the standout vintages of the decade.