Critic points: Between 91-96 

Region: Napa Valley

Vintners:  Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi.

Varietals:  Cabernet Sauvignon 78%, Merlot 8%, Petit Verdot 6%, Cabernet Franc 6% and Malbec 2%

Skin Contact: 22 days

Barrel Aging: 19 months in new French oak

Corkerage:  Bellini Italian Restaurant and Bar

When Gina asked me to review a bottle of wine for the magazine, I started to think about all the amazing bottles that I have. Which one would be the perfect fit for my date night? And then I remembered the special bottle that was given to me by a friend in The Moorings whose home was destroyed by hurricane Ian.  I had been helping her rebuild her home with the help of my personal business as well as assembling a team for the rest of the restoration.  Finding workers available she could trust was not an easy task.  Opus One was a gift of appreciation and I chose to share this with others that lovely evening to pay it forward. She asked me each time I visited if I drank the bottle yet. Somehow I knew this special bottle was meant to tingle more tongues than my own. 

 

As the deep purple color tapped the bottom of the wine glass, I knew, it was going to be complex and luscious. The aromas of blueberry and blackberries were as prominent as the legs that coated the glass.  Velvety smooth entry bursting with dark berries turned even darker as the finish ended with hints of dark chocolate.   Absolutely worth adding to your wine collection.