Opus One 2014
Opus One is a truly magnificent, world-class Californian red wine from the heart of the Napa Valley. Born from a legendary partnership between Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Bordeaux and Robert Mondavi, this iconic estate perfectly combines traditional French expertise with brilliant American sunshine. The vines are rooted in the exceptional soils of Oakville, where warm, sun-drenched days and cooling evening fogs allow the Cabernet Sauvignon led blend to achieve a stunning balance of intense fruit concentration and remarkable elegance. Following a beautifully consistent growing season, the wine was matured for a year and a half in new French oak barrels. Having rested quietly in the bottle for a decade, the 2014 is now entering a spectacular drinking window, seamlessly integrating that luxurious wood spice with the pure fruit. In the glass, it opens with an intoxicating perfume of dark violet, fresh blackberry, and sweet cedar. Every sip is incredibly refined and deeply savoury, delivering generous waves of ripe blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and a hint of espresso, all held together by melting, velvet-like tannins. Offering an unforgettable fine wine experience, this is an absolute showstopper to open for a grand celebration or an important dinner. To appreciate its full depth and complexity, decant the bottle for an hour or two before pouring, allowing those rich, intricate aromas to fully expand. It demands a truly spectacular dish at the table - pair it with a premium cut of dry-aged beef, a rich venison wellington, or a classic rack of lamb roasted with rosemary and garlic.
