Good bright medium red. Lively aromas of plum, redcurrant, tobacco and clove show a sexy oak component. Elegant and penetrating, displaying more red fruits, spices and flowers than minerals or black fruits. This stylish, gripping, classically dry midweight finishes with firm-edged tannins, a peppery nuance and subtle lingering perfume. (5/2019)

An exquisite, complex, stylish wine, wearing a cloak of earthy, leathery tannins around flavors of mineral, currant, earth and blackberry. Gains intensity and shows its depth and concentration on the finish, which is long and detailed. *Collectible* (10/2002)

This has quite a savory, almost smoky nose that seems more Bordeaux than Napa. Good acidity and balance on the palate. Well-knit tannins with blackberry, plum and damson. Very solid and well-structured, certainly better than the 1996. Much more subtle than I expected. (2/2003)

About Opus One

Established by two of the wine world’s most respected figures, Opus One, based in Oakville, California is one of the world’s elite wineries. The idea of a joint venture was born in 1970 when Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild met in Hawaii, but the concept did not materialize until 1978 when Mondavi paid a visit to Château Mouton Rothschild.

VINTAGE: 1999 Early in the growing season of 1999, cool temperatures delayed bud break and bloom in Opus One’s vineyards. Welcome spring rains reduced flower counts, decreasing the number of grape berries and increasing flavor concentration. Moderate summer temperatures allowed the vines to thrive and the fruit to ripen at a steady pace. A glorious Indian summer put the final touches of maturity on a fine harvest. Opus One is known for its exquisite texture, and the 1999 vintage is no exception. The wine shows aromas of cassis, cloves and roasted almonds against a creamy texture of soft tannins and round, rich fruit. Long-lived and concentrated, the wine shows f lavors of plum, cherry and black pepper against a silky finish.

VARIETALS: Cabernet Sauvignon 84%, Merlot 7%, Cabernet Franc 5%, Malbec 3% and Petit Verdot 1%

SKIN CONTACT: 40 days

BARREL AGING: 17 months in new French oak