2018 Opus One, Napa Valley - 750ML

99 Points – James Suckling

Opus One remains one of Napa Valley’s most recognized and collectible Bordeaux-inspired wines, founded as a landmark collaboration between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild. The 2018 vintage is a beautifully composed Oakville expression, marrying Napa richness with precision, polish, and long-form cellar potential.

Blend: 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 5% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec.

Tasting Notes: Aromas of blackberry, cassis, black cherry, violet, rose petal, graphite, licorice, dark chocolate, and subtle spice. The palate is layered and seamless, with polished dark fruit, fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity, and a long, elegant finish marked by floral lift and mineral detail.

Structure: Full-bodied, refined, and age-worthy, with impressive balance, polished tannins, and excellent depth.

Drink Window: 2026–2048.

Decanting: Decant for 2–4 hours if opening in its youth, allowing the wine’s dark fruit, floral aromatics, and tannic structure to fully unfold. From 2030 onward, a gentler 1–2 hour decant should be sufficient, depending on bottle condition.

A classic special-occasion bottle, the 2018 Opus One offers the prestige, elegance, and immediate recognizability that make it equally compelling for gifting, cellaring, or serving at a refined dinner. Its balance of Napa generosity and Bordeaux-inspired structure gives it broad appeal while retaining the depth expected from a collectible wine.