The ultimate comparison would be to compare this iconic second wine to its iconic father, the original Opus One wine. Proof that some traditions are better off broken sometimes, and if done right could open a door to immensely rewarding pleasure with less patience. Boeuf Bourguignon with a rich demi-glace base or duck confit is a sublime pairing to try.Īn unusual and very unorthodox project from the most prominent names in the global wine world and modern winemaking history, hence superbly enjoyable and thought-provoking.

American classics such as barbecue ribs and brisket are prime choices, while the French side of the wine will marry perfectly with Cote de Boeuf and braised game and lamb dishes as well. Bright and pleasurable. Opus One Overture is a wine that tastes effortlessly smooth thanks to the masterful blending making a precise, but also staggeringly complex and opulent wine making it a unique experience in the realm of fine wine.Ĭharmingly hefty requires equally inspiring food with an element of sweetness to it. Abundant dark fruit, liquorice and black cherry compliment the vanilla and cedar notes from time in top-quality French oak barrels, very specifically made for the estate in varying degrees of toast. With extended barrel-ageing, and the inclusion of back-vintages of wine, the non-vintage Overture by Opus one overture is a softer, more supple cousin to its illustrious stablemate. The immense structure of the Opus One wines cult classic requires extensive ageing before it becomes a pleasurable drinking experience the company, therefore, decided to put together a second wine which would provide an idea of what a mature Opus One might be like. A truly special release which recently, was only available from the cellar door. This unorthodox practice helps in the creation of a wine that achieves the pinnacle level of silky softness and complexity right upon release. The most unusual aspect of the Overture by Opus One however comes from being a non-vintage blend of multiple years. The Overture is the second wine of the estates, following the Bordelaise tradition of ‘deuxième’ wines. It is revered as one of the most sought-after and finest wines in California. The One Opus is one of the very best wines we sell. We were not fond of the chef's selection (crackers and nuts) to accompany our tasting, but that did not detract from our experience in any way.The world-famous joint venture between the legendary California winemaker Robert Mondavi and the late Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Bordeaux, Opus One is based right at the heart of Napa Valley, in Oakville AVA. We tasted black cherry and chocolate notes and loved it so much that we purchased a bottle to enjoy on our 40th wedding anniversary next year. Opus One only creates red blend wines and they are very expensive, but worth it because they know how to age and blend delicious and elegant wines. All of the staff were welcoming and acted in a professional manner, but we were made to feel comfortable throughout the experience. When we arrived early for our tasting, we were worried after seeing the opulent tasting room and beautifully manicured grounds that the place might be too stuffy and pretentious for us. He was very knowledgeable, as you might expect, but in a warm and friendly manner. Our time there was heightened by having Brendon as our specialist. It was a great addition to our five days in the valley!Ī truly 5 star experience just begins to tell the story of our first visit and wine tasting at Opus One Winery. We enjoyed this visit so much more than our first because of the pairings plus our host, Jorge and his wonderful explanations of the production and winery philosophy. My husband and I had first visited Opus in 2017, and this time brought two couples who are good friends. We enjoyed three vintages plus a glass of overture (a blend of the blends). A less involved tasting is also available….but if you are able the pairing experience is really worth your time. Views from all angles of the mountains and vineyards are postcard worthy, and the guided tasting is informative and made even more enjoyable by accompanying curated bites. The wine was made from a blend of 79 Cabernet Sauvignon, 7 Cabernet Franc, 6 Petit Verdot, 6 Merlot and 2 Malbec. Silky tannins, solid concentration of ripe, dark fruits, great mouthfeel and long, fruit filled, stylish finish is another winner from Opus One. Touring the winery is fascinating and a bit awe inspiring, too. This elegant, ripe, sweet, lush, charmer is no exception. How many wineries make just one wine…but do so with such care and attention that each vintage is better than the last? Conditions with weather obviously impact production, but here there is such focus on creating the best blend possible each year and it shows in the glass. This winery set the bar high for the region when it was first created and it continues to push that bar higher. A visit to Napa Valley is not complete without a tasting and tour of Opus One.

Opus one winery tasting price