2021 OPUS ONE Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

$449.00

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Experience the elegance and power of the 2021 Opus One Cabernet Sauvignon—a masterpiece that captures the essence of Napa Valley’s finest. With its rich layers of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and silky tannins, this wine offers an extraordinary balance of fruit, structure, and freshness. The 2021 growing season’s ideal conditions have crafted a wine that’s perfect for enjoying now or aging gracefully. Don’t miss your chance to own this iconic vintage and elevate your collection. Indulge in the luxury of Opus One—order your bottles today and savor a true Napa Valley legend.
Volume: 750 ML | 14% ABV | Collectable | 100 Point Score!

12 in stock

Jane Anson – 100 Points

A classical vintage that perfectly suits the Opus style. Gorgeous vivid plum colour, sculpted, balanced, with a ton of lift, waves of rose petals, iris and peony, soft grilled cumin, sage and white pepper spice. Love the hidden power here and the supple slightly chalky tannins that are structured in their architecture with a precision and carved quality. Precise, layered and stretched out, a brilliant Opus, concentrated and yet delicate. Feels pared back and captures the spirit of early Opus, when it moved forward the conversation of what Napa could be. Michael Silacci director, 100% new oak for ageing extremely well integrated even now. —Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux | janeanson.com

Jeb Dunnuck – 99 Points

The 2021 Opus One is another riveting wine from this estate. Pure cassis, graphite, chocolate, and nicely integrated oak, as well as an undeniable sense of minerality, all emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, building tannins, wonderful purity and precision, and a great finish. This is a classic Napa Valley Cabernet in the making, and it’s going to evolve for 20-25 years if well stored. Feb/2023 —jebdunnuck.com

James Suckling – 99 Points

An enticing aroma of violets, cherry blossoms, fresh blue and black fruit and great structure define this beautiful, age-worthy wine. Subtle layering of fruit and oak spices between firm, fine-grained and supportive tannins gives it a calm intensity. So elegant and polished. Hints of cinnamon and graphite accent blackcurrant and blueberry flavors that linger and grow in a long finish. Already attractive to drink, but best after 2029 May/2024 —jamessuckling.com

The Wine Independent – 98 Points

The 2021 Opus One is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 0.5% each of Merlot and Malbec. It was bottled in July 2023. Deep garnet-purple in color, it comes barreling out of the glass with gregarious notions of creme de cassis, wild blueberries, and redcurrant jelly followed by hints of cedar chest, sassafras, vanilla pod, and dark chocolate plus a waft of lilacs. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers shimmery red, black, and blue fruit layers with a firm texture of rounded tannins and impressive tension, finishing long and fragrant. Jun/2024 | —Lisa Perrotti-Brown | thewineindependent.com

Vinous – 97 Points

The 2021 Opus One is absolutely gorgeous. Vibrant, layered and quite sensual in feel, the 2021 possesses the concentration and depth of years such as 2013 and 2010 but with more polished tannins. Dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, mint and a touch of cinnamon open gracefully. Sweet floral notes extend the mid-palate into the finish, where silky tannins wrap it all together. The 2021 is an incredibly promising Opus One. Dec/2023 —Antonio Galloni | vinous.com

Description

The 2021 Opus One Cabernet Sauvignon is a captivating wine that masterfully embodies the finesse and power of Napa Valley’s most distinguished vineyards. Its deep garnet hue draws the eye, but it’s the bouquet that truly enchants. Aromas of ripe blackcurrants, blackberries, and plums blend harmoniously with floral hints of violet and earthy notes of graphite. As the wine evolves, layers of dark chocolate, espresso, and vanilla oak emerge, adding further depth and complexity to its aromatic profile.

On the palate, this vintage offers a rich, full-bodied experience, where fruit and structure are beautifully balanced. Bold flavors of black cherries, cassis, and ripe plum are framed by finely integrated tannins. A silky texture elevates its elegance, while vibrant acidity provides freshness and lift, making each sip feel both balanced and refined. The long, satisfying finish lingers with subtle notes of cocoa, cedar, and spice—a testament to the wine’s remarkable craftsmanship and aging potential.

The 2021 growing season in Napa Valley provided ideal conditions for crafting a wine of such caliber. A mild winter with below-average rainfall led to uniform bud break in the spring, and cooler temperatures ensured a steady development of flavors in the grapes. A warm but moderate summer allowed the fruit to achieve perfect phenolic ripeness, preserving its natural acidity. The harvest began in late August, with each vineyard block meticulously picked at its peak, resulting in a wine that showcases both concentration of flavor and precision in structure, ensuring graceful aging for years to come.

Opus One stands as one of the most iconic wines in the world, a symbol of a groundbreaking partnership between two wine legends: Robert Mondavi, the visionary behind Napa Valley’s rise to global prominence, and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, the esteemed owner of Château Mouton Rothschild in Bordeaux. Forged in 1978, their collaboration married Old World winemaking tradition with New World innovation, creating a Bordeaux-style wine designed to compete on the world stage.

Robert Mondavi, a pioneer of Napa Valley, dreamed of elevating California wine to world-class status. He revolutionized the region by focusing on quality vineyard management and modern techniques. Meanwhile, Baron Philippe de Rothschild had already secured his legacy with Château Mouton Rothschild, one of Bordeaux’s First Growth estates. Recognizing the untapped potential of Napa Valley, Rothschild approached Mondavi with the idea of creating a single, ultra-premium wine that would combine their expertise.

Their vision came to life with Opus One—a wine blending the elegance and complexity of Bordeaux with the boldness and vibrancy of Napa Valley. The first vintage, a 1979 Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend, was released in 1984 and quickly captured the world’s attention for its exceptional quality. It set a new standard for California wine, proving that Napa could compete with the greatest wines of Europe.

Produced in a state-of-the-art winery built specifically for the project in the prestigious Oakville AVA of Napa Valley, Opus One is crafted using a combination of traditional Bordeaux methods and cutting-edge technology. Every aspect of the vineyard is meticulously managed to ensure the highest quality fruit, while the winemaking process focuses on elegance, balance, and age-worthiness.

Today, Opus One remains one of the most sought-after and collectible wines globally, a legacy that continues to reflect the vision of its founders and the unique terroir of Napa Valley. The partnership between Mondavi and Rothschild not only cemented Napa’s international reputation but also symbolized the harmonious fusion of two great wine cultures.

Professional Reviewer

Symbol

The Wine Advocaterobertparker.com WA
Wine Spectatorwinespectator.com WS
James Sucklingjamessuckling.com JS
Wine Enthusiastwinemag.com WE
The Wine Independentthewineindependent.com TWI
Allen Meadows —Burghoundburghound.com BH
Connoisseur’s Guide to California Winecgcw.com CGCW
Wine & Spiritswineandspiritsmagazine.com W&S
The Tasting Paneltastingpanelmag.com TP
Antonio Galloni —Vinous Mediavinous.com VM
Jancis Robinsonjancisrobinson.com JR
Stephen TanzerInternational Wine Cellar — IWC
Jeb Dunnuckjebdunnuck.com JD
Decanter Magazinedecanter.com D
Jane Anson —Inside Bordeauxjaneanson.com JA

Expert Wine Reviews & Scores:
Comprehensive Insights from the World’s Top Wine Critics

 

The Wine Advocate (WA) • Influential Wine Criticism for Global Wine Lovers •

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Wine Spectator (WS) • Comprehensive Wine Reviews, Industry News, and Lifestyle Features •

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James Suckling (JS) • Straightforward Wine Reviews for Serious Enthusiasts •

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Wine Enthusiast (WE) • Wine Reviews, Buying Guides, and Wine Culture •

Wine Enthusiast is a well-established publication that has been offering expert wine reviews since 1988. The magazine rates thousands of wines each year, using a 100-point scale, and provides accessible reviews for both novice wine drinkers and seasoned collectors. Wine Enthusiast covers a broad range of wine-producing regions, from the major players like France, Italy, and California, to lesser-known areas that are just emerging on the global wine scene. In addition to its reviews, Wine Enthusiast publishes wine buying guides, food and wine pairings, and features on wine-related travel destinations. Its mix of education and entertainment makes it a well-rounded resource for wine lovers. Visit Wine Enthusiast for more.

The Wine Independent (TWI) • A New Standard in Independent Wine Criticism •

The Wine Independent is a fresh and innovative wine publication co-founded by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, former editor-in-chief of The Wine Advocate. The Wine Independent is committed to providing unbiased wine reviews and in-depth commentary on the wine industry. The publication covers a wide variety of wine-producing regions, offering detailed reviews of wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Napa Valley, and more. By focusing on the integrity and transparency of wine criticism, The Wine Independent aims to provide wine lovers with a reliable and authoritative voice. Whether you are a casual wine drinker or a serious collector, The Wine Independent offers a fresh perspective on the wines that matter most. Discover The Wine Independent.

Allen Meadows, Burghound (BH) • The Leading Source for Burgundy Wine Reviews •

Allen Meadows, widely known as Burghound, is considered one of the foremost experts on Burgundy wines. His publication, Burghound, provides exhaustive reviews of wines from Burgundy, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, offering readers an unparalleled depth of knowledge about this prestigious region. Burghound is a go-to resource for collectors, investors, and anyone deeply interested in Burgundy, with Allen’s detailed terroir analysis and vintage reviews standing out as some of the most comprehensive in the world. His reviews emphasize the subtle differences in terroir and vintage, making them essential reading for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of Burgundy wines. Visit Burghound to explore more.

Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine (CGCW) • California’s Premier Wine Review Publication •

Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine, or CGCW, has been a trusted source of California wine reviews since 1974. The guide focuses exclusively on California wines, offering insights into both established wine-growing regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma, as well as emerging areas within the state. CGCW uses a straightforward 3-star rating system that is designed to be consumer-friendly while still delivering detailed and informative reviews. Whether you are exploring California Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, or lesser-known varietals, CGCW offers expert guidance for understanding the full breadth of the California wine industry. Explore Connoisseur’s Guide for more.

Wine & Spirits (W&S) • Wine Reviews with a Focus on Food Pairings and Sustainability •

Wine & Spirits is a highly respected magazine that has been offering in-depth wine reviews and features since 1982. Known for its panel-based tasting methodology, Wine & Spirits provides highly reliable and consistent wine ratings, covering all the major wine regions across the globe. What sets Wine & Spirits apart is its focus on how wine interacts with food and its commitment to sustainability in the wine industry. Each issue features wine and food pairing guides and highlights sustainable practices in viticulture, making it an essential resource for both wine professionals and eco-conscious wine consumers. Visit Wine & Spirits for more.

The Tasting Panel (TP) • Wine, Spirits, and Beer Reviews for Beverage Professionals •

The Tasting Panel is a trade-focused publication that offers expert reviews of wines, spirits, and beer. It is particularly valuable for professionals in the beverage industry, including sommeliers, buyers, and distributors, as it covers emerging trends and market shifts in the wine and spirits industry. The Tasting Panel’s reviews are highly respected for their precision and insight, with a strong focus on identifying quality and value in both established brands and new players. The publication also explores the intersection of wine, spirits, and food, making it a well-rounded resource for professionals looking to stay ahead in the market. Visit The Tasting Panel for more.

Antonio Galloni, Vinous (VM) • Comprehensive Wine Reviews and Educational Resources •

Antonio Galloni, the founder of Vinous, is one of the most respected wine critics in the industry today. Originally known for his expertise in Italian wines, Galloni has expanded Vinous to cover regions like Bordeaux, California, and Champagne. Vinous offers not only detailed wine reviews but also a wide range of educational resources, including interactive maps, podcasts, and video interviews with winemakers. The platform’s in-depth coverage and multimedia approach make it a valuable resource for both wine enthusiasts and professionals seeking a deeper understanding of the wine world. Visit Vinous for more.

Jancis Robinson (JR) • One of the World’s Most Respected Wine Writers •

Jancis Robinson is an internationally recognized wine critic, writer, and author. Her website, JancisRobinson.com, is one of the most comprehensive online resources for wine reviews, covering regions from around the globe. Robinson’s tasting notes are widely respected for their clarity and depth, and she is known for her encyclopedic knowledge of wine. In addition to wine reviews, Robinson is the author of several influential books, including “The Oxford Companion to Wine,” which has become a cornerstone of wine education. Visit Jancis Robinson for expert wine reviews.

Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar (IWC) • No-Nonsense Wine Criticism •

Stephen Tanzer founded International Wine Cellar and is known for his unpretentious and honest approach to wine criticism. Tanzer’s concise reviews offer deep insights into the quality and character of wines, with a focus on regions like Burgundy, Bordeaux, and California. His journal has long been respected for its integrity and refusal to follow hype, focusing instead on delivering clear and balanced wine evaluations. Tanzer’s work has been influential in shaping the understanding of terroir-driven wines. Learn More about Stephen Tanzer.

Jeb Dunnuck (JD) • Wine Critic with a Focus on Rhône and California Wines •

Jeb Dunnuck is a prominent wine critic who started his career reviewing Rhône Valley wines but has since expanded his coverage to include California, Bordeaux, and beyond. His website, JebDunnuck.com, provides in-depth reviews and reports from tastings and vineyard visits, often giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at the wine industry. His reviews are known for being approachable and informative, making them accessible to both casual wine drinkers and serious collectors. Dunnuck’s reviews provide a trusted guide for those looking to explore wines from around the world. Visit Jeb Dunnuck for expert wine reviews.

Decanter Magazine (D) • A Leading British Wine Publication •

Decanter is a British wine magazine that has been providing expert wine reviews and features since 1975. Known for its rigorous tasting panels and professional reviews, Decanter covers all the major wine-producing regions in the world. The magazine’s Decanter World Wine Awards is one of the most prestigious wine competitions globally, attracting entries from thousands of wineries each year. Decanter’s comprehensive wine reviews, articles on winemakers, and exploration of viticulture trends make it an essential resource for wine professionals and enthusiasts alike. Visit Decanter for more.

Jane Anson (JA), Inside Bordeaux • The Definitive Guide to Bordeaux Wines •

Jane Anson is one of the world’s leading experts on Bordeaux wines. Her website, Inside Bordeaux, offers in-depth reviews and vintage reports from one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world. Anson’s work is particularly respected for its detail and accuracy, covering the terroir and winemaking practices of Bordeaux’s top estates. In addition to her online reviews, Anson has authored several books, including the acclaimed “Inside Bordeaux.” Her focus on the subtle nuances of Bordeaux wines makes her a go-to source for collectors and serious enthusiasts. Explore Inside Bordeaux to learn more.

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