Heritage
Opus One 2021 continues the tradition of this iconic Napa Valley estate—a singular vision born from the collaboration of Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. This vintage showcases a seamless integration of old-world winemaking precision and new-world terroir, sourced exclusively from the estate’s meticulously cultivated vineyards in Oakville, including the renowned To Kalon Vineyard.
Hand-harvested during the cool nighttime hours, the grapes underwent rigorous sorting and gentle fermentation in stainless steel tanks to retain purity and balance. The wine was aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels, crafted by artisan coopers using tight-grain wood that allows for controlled oxygen exchange—enhancing structure and longevity.
The 2021 vintage benefited from a consistent growing season with moderate temperatures and minimal heat spikes, allowing the fruit to ripen slowly and evenly. Precision viticulture, sustainable farming practices, and limited yields ensured concentration and depth. Opus One 2021 exemplifies the estates philosophy of minimal intervention, where nature and craftsmanship coalesce in pursuit of timeless elegance and cellar-worthy complexity.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Tasting Notes
Opus One 2021 is a celebrated vintage from Napa Valley’s iconic joint venture between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild. This ultra-premium Bordeaux-style blend is a masterclass in elegance and power. The bouquet reveals expressive aromas of cassis, blackberry, black cherry, violets, and graphite, with subtle layers of cedar, fine tobacco, and dark chocolate. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied yet impeccably balanced, showcasing refined tannins and vibrant acidity. Flavors of dark plum, espresso, leather, and earthy minerality unfold with precision. The finish is persistent, complex, and deeply nuanced, promising decades of aging potential.
Food Pairings
Starter: Beef carpaccio with truffle oil or wild mushroom tart
Main Course: Herb-crusted rack of lamb, filet mignon with red wine jus, or duck confit
Dessert: Flourless chocolate cake or dark cherry clafoutis
Cheese: Aged Manchego, Beaufort, or firm blue cheeses like Bleu d’Auvergne
Other: Black truffle risotto or a chargrilled Portobello stack with balsamic glaze
Craftsmanship
Opus One is a prestigious Napa Valley estate born from the visionary partnership between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. Renowned for its Bordeaux-style blends and iconic architecture, the winery represents a harmonious fusion of Old World elegance and New World innovation. Opus One is committed to sustainable viticulture, meticulous winemaking, and producing wines of depth, structure, and age-worthiness. It stands as a symbol of California’s global wine reputation and continues to be one of the most collectible labels in the luxury wine market.
