Nose
Aromas of blackberry, rose petals, chocolate and espresso accentuate fruity and earthy nuances.
Palate
Round velvety tannins enrobe a silky texture with a touch of minerality. The flavors of dark fruit are enhanced by the well-integrated acidity. The acidity and tannin structure promise a very long life ahead.
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 2010 vintage will be remembered as a uniquely demanding year with unseasonably cold days, untimely rainfall, and surprisingly hot days. Having left a sufficient number of leaves on the vines, our grapes avoided sunburn from late season heat assuring the success of the vintage.
Harvest
Harvest began on September 23 and concluded on October 23.
Winemaking
Skin contact: 19 days
Aging
Barrel Aging 18 months in new French oak
