2021 Opus One
Buying options
Tasting notes
(Wildfire-affected 2020 was made in tiny quantity – 10% of the usual quantity – but not released.) In 2021 were unseasonably dry conditions with the second-lowest rainfall in Opus One’s history. The vineyard team took advantage of the dry conditions to cultivate early to avoid unnecessary competition for the limited water available. Cooler temperatures prevailed, and rains in late March arrived just in time for the slightly delayed budbreak on 7 April. Warmer weather in April and May promoted shoot growth and flowering began on 17 May. Reduced water led to lower-than-average yields, which resulted in particularly concentrated fruit. Summer was very warm but there were no prolonged periods over 100 °F. Harvest began very early. on 31 August and was steady and brief, finishing on 24 September. All of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, 0.5% Merlot, 0.5% Malbec. 19-day skin contact and then 19.5 months in new French oak . Bright crimson. Low key, non flashy (in with the zeitgeist?). Dry finish. Rather European! Bright-fruited. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2021 Opus One is a blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, with the remaining 1% made up of Malbec and Merlot. Svelte and silky in feel, it boasts sedate, controlled aromas of cherries, cedar and sandalwood. It's medium- to full-bodied, restrained and poised, its softly dusty finish speaking to carefully managed extraction in a vintage concentrated by drought.
A dense, concentrated, powerful red that emphasizes smoky, flinty, espresso aromas and rather restrained, tight black-cherry and cocoa flavors on a very full body. Firm tannins shape the palate as gunflint, black pepper and black currants dominate. Drink now or hold.
Tasted out of bottle, the 2021 Opus One is based on 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and splashes of Merlot and Malbec. This rich, full-bodied, concentrated Opus exhibits a deep ruby/plum hue as well as textbook notes of cedar pencil, graphite, tobacco, and a Graves-like scorched earth character. In my view, this is one of the finest vintages of this cuvée produced, and while it’s accessible today, it has another 30+ years of prime drinking ahead of it.
About the producer
Created by Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Opus One is one of the most famous wines and estates in the Napa Valley. Its iconic Cabernet Sauvignon combines the elegance and freshness of Bordeaux with the natural ripeness and opulence of Napa.
Product details
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec/ Auxerrois / Cot
Red
Dry