The One, The Only: Opus One Wine

What comes to mind when the name Opus One Wine is raised?

Opus One’s price tag in the triple digits signals its exclusivity and prestige, making it a wine often reserved for special occasions. Collectors also know it’s a wine that improves with age, making it a solid investment right from release.

But do you know what makes it so special? Keep reading to learn more about Opus One Wine or pick up a bottle at Uncork It at 393 East Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611. 

Opus One’s story began with a remarkable partnership between two legends in the wine world: Robert Mondavi of California and Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Bordeaux’s Château Mouton Rothschild.

Their goal was to create a wine that embodied the finesse of Old World Bordeaux with the boldness of New World Napa Valley. Mondavi, already a leader in California winemaking, was known for pushing the boundaries of what Napa could achieve. Meanwhile, Rothschild brought centuries of winemaking expertise from Château Mouton Rothschild, one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious estates.

After years of planning and development, their vision culminated in the release of the first vintage in 1979, a blend that immediately captured the attention of wine critics and collectors: Opus One.. 

The success of Opus One starts in the vineyard. The grapes are sourced from four specific vineyards in Napa Valley, including the renowned To Kalon vineyard, where the terroir plays a significant role in shaping the character of the wine.

The perfect combination of soil, climate, and meticulous care ensures that every vintage reflects the unique qualities of the region. Each block of grapes is carefully monitored, and harvest timing is key. Only the best fruit is chosen, and each one is selected using a rigorous process that includes hand-sorting and optical sorting to guarantee quality. After fermentation, the wine is aged in new French oak barrels for about 20 months. This attention to detail results in a wine that’s balanced, structured, and built to last.

The vineyard primarily grows Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, which contribute to the wine’s depth and complexity.

Opus One offers a remarkable balance between the bold fruit of Napa Valley and the elegance of Bordeaux-style winemaking. The nose opens with intense aromas of blackberries, cassis, and ripe plum, layered with more subtle notes of violet and dried herbs. These fruit-forward characteristics are complemented by a complex blend of secondary aromas, including hints of tobacco leaf, graphite, and a touch of dark chocolate.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and powerful, with a firm tannic structure that provides both depth and longevity. Flavors of dark fruit, particularly blackberries and black cherries, dominate the first sip, followed by more nuanced layers of cedar, anise, and espresso. The wine’s time spent in French oak adds a hint of vanilla and sweet spice, which integrates seamlessly with its robust flavors.

Despite its intensity, Opus One is known for its refined mouthfeel and elegance. The acidity is bright and well-balanced, helping to cut through the richness and adding a refreshing lift to the wine’s complexity. The finish is long and persistent, leaving traces of dark fruit, minerals, and fine-grained tannins.

While Opus One can be enjoyed upon release, its true character develops with aging. Over time, the wine softens, and the fruit becomes more integrated with earthy, leathery notes, adding greater depth and sophistication. After a decade or more in the cellar, Opus One showcases even more subtle layers of complexity, rewarding those who are patient enough to wait.

While every vintage of Opus One offers something special, certain years have stood out among collectors.

Vintages like 2005, 2010, and 2013 for example, are praised for their complexity and aging potential. But that’s not to say that newer releases aren’t just as impressive. Newer bottles offer both approachability and long-term potential, so whether you purchased a bottle to enjoy now or intend to cellar it for a decade, each bottle has the potential to impress.

All things considered, Opus One is definitely an investment. And this reliable ability to improve with age makes it a top choice for collectors. Over time, as the wine softens and its flavors become more integrated, it creates a drinking experience that only gets better. 

Opus One’s rich flavors and structure make it versatile for a range of dishes. Here are some ideal pairings:

Grilled Steaks: Ribeye or filet mignon bring out the best in Opus One’s tannins, which soften against the meat’s fat.

Roasted Lamb: Lamb with herbs like rosemary or thyme complements the wine’s complexity, enhancing its earthy and savory notes.

Roasted Duck: A duck with a sweet glaze (like honey or orange) pairs well with the wine’s fruit and spice, creating a balanced contrast.

Braised Short Ribs: The deep, hearty flavors of short ribs harmonize with Opus One’s long, oaky finish.

Hard Cheeses: Aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or aged Gouda match the wine’s intensity, balancing its structure.

Mushroom-Based Dishes: Earthy dishes like mushroom risotto or tarts enhance the wine’s umami and bring out its more nuanced flavors.

Opus One offers a unique balance of elegance and power, making it the perfect choice for any special occasion or to add to your collection. You can find this iconic wine at Uncork It in Chicago, IL. Visit them at 393 East Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Their knowledgeable staff will help you choose the perfect bottle of Opus One to elevate your next event. For questions, call (312) 321-9400, visit www.uncorkitchicago.com, or email uncorkit393@yahoo.com. Make your next celebration unforgettable with Opus One from Uncork It in Chicago.