Opus One Winery in Oakville, Napa Valley
One vision. One wine.
Founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, proprietor of Château Mouton Rothschild, and Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi, Opus One was born from the great winemaking traditions of both renowned families. The goal of the founders was to create an exceptional wine in the Napa Valley, and their dedication to quality and innovation led to their achievement—an acclaimed traditional red wine blend based on estate grown Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Vineyards
On four parcels located in the western side of the Oakville AVA, the vineyard team cultivates five traditional Bordeaux grape varieties. Hand-harvesting and other traditional practices mesh with modern techniques, incorporated when research and careful evaluation establish their benefits.
The culture and methods used at Opus One demonstrate commitment to sustainability, conservation, and responsible consumption of energy, water, transportation, purchasing, and food. Certified as a Napa Green Winery as part of the Napa Valley Vintners Napa Green Initiative, Opus One is implementing more than 100 environmentally favorable procedures.
Opus One Wines
Winemaker, Michael Silacci, combines his intuition and technical skills with the vision of the Opus One founders. Each stage of the winemaking process, from viticulture to tasting and sorting berries to the aging in new French oak barrels, receives his careful attention.
Opus One 2019 is composed of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Malbec. The wine is described as having “intense aromas of black plum, blueberry, black currant, and dried rose petals, accentuated by mineral undertones.” Barrel aged in new French oak for 19 months, the wine exhibits “dark fruit flavors, savory herbs, espresso, and cocoa.”
Overture is produced in keeping with the tradition of many Bordeaux estates. The full-bodied wine “shows generous dark fruit aromas and flavors with a soft, supple mid-palate.” Blending multiple vintages and five Bordeaux grape varieties “yields a softer, rounder expression of our estate that can be enjoyed upon release.” In addition, extended barrel aging gives Overture “a supple structure and silky texture.”
Visiting Opus One Winery
A visit to Opus One Estate reveals a stunning structure with grass-covered berms and surrounded by the famed vineyards. The building reflects European style and modern design, combining pale limestone and California Redwood and American Oak in its striking architecture.
Inside, visitors find a blend of sophisticated furnishings, Old World decorator touches, and comfortable luxury—perfect for tasting Opus One wines and learning about their French and American origins while enjoying expansive views of the vineyards.
Guests can choose the Opus One Experience ($200 per person for up to eight guests). The interactive, educational 90-minute tasting of two library wines along with the current vintage is hosted by an Estate Ambassador. A curated tour of the winery follows, and the experience includes details on the history of Opus One, their viticulture and winemaking practices, and a discussion of the wines.
The Courtyard Experience ($125 per person for up to four guests) is arranged in the relaxed setting of the Estate’s limestone Courtyard surrounded by olive trees, with views of the Mayacamas Mountains. After a leisurely hour-long self-guided tasting of two vintages of Opus One and the Overture wine, the host shares the history of the winery and discusses the vineyards and winemaking practices.
Customized experiences, including private tastings, dinners, and tours can be arranged by request. For larger groups, visitors should contact the winery’s reservation team. Reservations are available up to two months in advance and are made available on the first day of every month. Guests must be at least 21 years of age.
The collaboration between Baron Philippe de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi has created both the celebrated Opus One wines and this unique winery experience, a must for oenophiles and those wishing to learn about Napa Valley’s distinctive, and classic red wine blends.
