Mondavi Opus One 2012: A Masterclass in Winemaking

Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley's Oakville district, Opus One is a wine estate renowned for producing some of America's most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon. The estate's 100-acre To Kalon Vineyard, complemented by the Ballestra and River parcels, provides the perfect terroir for growing exceptional grapes. Hand-harvesting and traditional winemaking techniques are employed where possible, while modern methods are researched and integrated into practice to ensure the best possible outcome.

The Opus One estate vineyards, comprising four parcels, are situated in the western portion of the Oakville AVA. This unique combination of terroir, climate, and human element allows for a balance between power and finesse, structure and texture in each bottle of wine. The winemaking process is meticulous, with careful sorting, extended aging in new French oak barrels, and a minimum of 18 months of aging before bottling.

The resulting wine is a true masterpiece, featuring complex flavors of earth, crushed rock, and gravelly dark berry, framed by smoky, toasty oak. The dense core of fruit pushes through a front of rustic graphite and loamy earth, culminating in a long, layered aftertaste that lingers on the palate.

As one of Napa Valley's most iconic wineries, Opus One is a partnership between Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Chateau Mouton Rothschild and renowned vintner Robert Mondavi. With its first vintage released in 1979, Opus One has been producing luxury wines from its Napa Valley vineyards since 1991.

For wine enthusiasts looking to learn more about this iconic winery, the history of Opus One is a fascinating story that spans generations. From its inception as a partnership between two visionaries to its current status as one of the world's premier wine estates, Opus One continues to push the boundaries of winemaking excellence.

In conclusion, Mondavi Opus One 2012 is a true masterpiece of winemaking, showcasing the perfect balance of power and finesse, structure and texture. With its complex flavors, smoky oak, and long aftertaste, this wine is a must-try for anyone who appreciates exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.

Mondavi opus one 2012