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Opus One 2022 Napa Valley, Opus One Winery Mondavi/Rothschild

Opus One was founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, legendary proprietor of ChâteauMouton Rothschild, and renowned Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. By combining the great winemaking traditions and innovations of both families, the founders’ singular goal was to create an exceptional wine in the heart of Napa Valley. Opus One, like any great work, arose out of passion. Dedicated to uncompromised quality, Opus One’s sole purpose is to express this vision and passionate spirit for generations to come. VINTAGE 2022: Following early-winter rains which provided 12 inches more rain than the previous year, the late-winter months were unseasonably dry. Late spring weather was turbulent, but did not impact flowering or fruit set. Extreme temperatures during harvest made for a delicate dance by our seasoned vineyard team. Pre-emptive measures were taken in advance of this heat wave; ripe fruit was harvested, and selective irrigation was used based on the needs of the vines. The results were astonishing, with marvelous flavors and exceptional freshness. Harvest began on August 24th and was completed by September 26th. Opus One 2022 exudes charm and sophistication from the glass. Primary aromas of blueberry, cassis, and dried rose petals with underlying notes of olive, cigar box, and graphite create a rich and inviting bouquet. On the palate, bright red-fruit flavors, cocoa, and fresh orange peel waltz together into a harmonious and balanced profile. Long and elegant, the finish delivers touches of wet stone, vanilla, and a hint of coffee. Fine-grained tannins and juicy ripeness signal the promise of a long future in the cellar. VARIETALS: Cabernet Sauvignon 80%, Petit Verdot 8%, Cabernet Franc 6.5%, Merlot 5% and Malbec 0.5% / SKIN CONTACT: 20 days / BARREL AGING: 18 months in new French oak
Country: USA
Region: Kalifornien
Producer/appellation: Opus One Winery Mondavi/Rothschild
Wine type: Red wines
Year: 2022
Content: 75 cl
Oranic/bio dynamic: No

95-97

Lisa Perrotti-Brown

The Wine Independent

The 2022 Opus One was tasted as a barrel sample. Deep garnet-purple in color, it soars with eager-to-go notes of blackcurrant pastilles, juicy blackberries, and plum preserves leading to hints of crushed rocks, tree bark, and Sichuan pepper. The full-bodied palate is concentrated and impactful, with a firm line of ripe, grainy tannins and bags of black fruit preserves layers, finishing with loads of savory nuances and a compelling lift.


94

Jeb Dunnuck

Jeb Dunnuck

The 2022 Opus One shows the sunny, perfumed style of the vintage. Black raspberries, smoked tobacco, incense, and spicy wood notes all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a supple, layered mouthfeel, velvety tannins, and a great finish. I’ve been lucky enough to do many retrospectives of this wine, so I have no doubt it will evolve gracefully for a solid two decades. 08/2025


96

Jim Gordon

James Suckling

Generous, with savory aromas of ripe blackcurrants and fresh black cherries and a gentle texture that shows a slight nip of tannin. It is well structured and a bit tight, which is normal for a young cabernet sauvignon-based red that’s a proven collectible. Gives up graphite and pencil shavings, some cocoa and espresso. Full-bodied. Spicy, toasty oak is really showing through right now. Best from 2028. 07/2025