Nose
SEE LESS
The Opus One 2011 fresh aromas of bright red fruits, herbes de provence, bay leaf and cassis which give way to subtler notes of black tea and white pepper.
Palate
The wine's round tannins and creamy texture envelop the familiar flavors of fresh cherry, cranberry, and boysenberry with a touch of dark chocolate. This polished and age-worthy wine simultaneously offers a satiny finish and a slight grip of tannin at the close.
Growing Conditions
The estate vineyards of Opus One, comprised of 4 parcels, sit in the western portion of the famed Oakville AVA. Two parcels, totaling 100 acres, are within the renowned To Kalon Vineyard. These are complemented by the combined 70 acres of the Ballestra and River parcels, which envelop the winery. In the vineyards, hand-harvesting and other traditional approaches are taken wherever they work best. When modern techniques benefit the winegrowing process, they are researched, evaluated and integrated into practice.
The 2011 vintage started with unseasonably late rainfall in June which disrupted fruit set. This variable rain and low temperatures reduced the number and size of berries on each cluster yet increased concentration of the fruit.
Harvest
Harvest began on September 22nd and ended on October 25th.
Winemaking
Skin contact: 17 days.
Aging
Barrel Aging 18 months in new French oak
