2019 Opus One

Abundant spring rains, nearly double the annual average, saturated the soil and provided ample water for the growing season. The first signs of budbreak were observed in the vineyard on 27 March, a full 15 days later than usual. This delay led to later bloom and veraison. However, warmer temperatures towards the end of summer accelerated the fruit’s development and maturity so that picking began on 10 September, a couple of days earlier than average. The harvest lasted four weeks. 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec. 22-day skin contact. 19 months in new French oak. Glowing crimson. Heady, a bit like 2009 although there’s an appetising minerality on the palate. Muscular even. (JR)

Juicy, balanced, succulent, and is showing exceptionally well at this point, although has a long life ahead if you can hold back. I love the 2019 vintage in Napa and Tuscany, and here it shows its grace, balance and nuance, without compromising on depth and quality of ripe black fruits studded with sage, rosemary, pencil lead, mint leaf, eucalyptus, crushed rocks. Signature Opus, expressive and joyful but with a classicism that is hard to resist. Michael Silacci winemaker, 100% new oak for ageing.

The 2019 Opus One shows off the more opulent side of the vintage to great effect. Sumptuous dark fruit, spice and floral accents wrap around the palate, with a fair amount of new oak adding volume and exotic flair. This is an especially showy Opus One that will drink well with minimal cellaring. (AG)