Palate
The 1988 vintage produced an Opus One that is exceptionally intense, yet elegant, filled with rich berry fruit, cassis and spice. Soft tannins make it delicious for enjoying now, but the firm, balanced structure supports a continued development in the bottle for decades, given proper cellar conditions.
Growing Conditions
Opus One was founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, legendary proprietor of Château
Mouton Rothschild, and renowned Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. By combining the
great winemaking traditions and innovations of both families, the founders’ singular goal was
to create an exceptional wine in the heart of Napa Valley.
Opus One, like any great work, arose out of passion. Dedicated to uncompromised quality,
Opus One’s sole purpose is to express this vision and passionate spirit for generations to come.
An early bud break, followed by a long, temperate growing season produced extremely well balanced grapes and an elegant wine. Erratic temperatures throughout the first few months of the season caused some shatter in the grape flowers and uneven rates of maturation.
Winemaking
Skin Contact: 28 days
Aging
Barrel Aging: 18 months in new French oak
