The presence of mineral-rich soils in the vineyards imparts distinctive mineral and earthy notes to the wine, adding depth and character to the final product. These soils provide a range of flavors and textures, enhancing the complexity of the final blend.

In addition to the To Kalon Vineyard, Opus One's estate vineyards include blocks with alluvial and volcanic soils. These variations in soil types offer unique mineral characteristics to the grapes. The soils in this vineyard consist of well-draining alluvial deposits, including gravelly, loamy, and clay-rich soils. The To Kalon Vineyard is celebrated for its diverse soil types, which contribute to the complexity of the grapes grown there. The estate's diverse terroir allows for the cultivation of different grape varieties and the creation of complex blends.Ī significant portion of Opus One's vineyards are sourced from the renowned To Kalon Vineyard. These microclimates result from variations in elevation, exposure to sunlight, and proximity to the Napa River. Within the AVA, there are microclimates that influence the different blocks of vineyards at Opus One. This climate is ideal for grape cultivation and allows for a long growing season, which is essential for achieving full ripeness and flavor development in the grapes. The Oakville AVA experiences a Mediterranean climate, as does Bordeaux, characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The choice of location was deliberate, as Napa Valley's climate and soil composition resembles that of Bordeaux, which played a pivotal role in defining the style of Opus One. This iconic vineyard is known for producing exceptional grapes that contribute to the opulence and depth of Opus One wines. Opus One boasts a picturesque vineyard that covers over 100 acres in the heart of Napa Valley, with a significant portion sourced from Robert Mondavi's legendary To Kalon Vineyard. Opus One Winery – “Californian 1st Growth” In 2004, when Constellation Brands took over the Robert Mondavi winery, the estate of Baron Rothschild engaged in negotiations with Constellation Brands to assume control over various aspects of the winery, including marketing, vineyard management, and administrative operations. By the 1990s, Opus One had risen to prominence as the quintessential California cult wine, finding a dedicated following not only in the United States but also across Asia and Europe. Opus One wine made its public debut in 1984, however even before its official release, it had garnered significant interest, as a single case of the wine sold for $24,000 at the first Napa Valley Wine Auction in 1981. More importantly though to the two savvy wine marketers, “ Opus One” was easy to pronounce in multiple languages. The origins of the term Opus One were derived from the ancient Latin terminology, Oper, which implies the first masterpiece of a musician.

However, it wasn't until 1980 that this first vintage was launched and in 1982 under the official name: Opus One. This unique label symbolized the blending of Franco-American winemaking traditions.

Mondavi and Rothschilds’ collaboration officially came to life in 1979 when the first vintage of Opus One, then named Napamedoc, was created. This meeting marked the beginning of their collaboration to merge the best of Old World and New World winemaking styles and philosophy into one grand opus. The genesis of Opus One can be traced back to 1970 when Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild met for the first time at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii. His belief was that wine transcended human existence and endured beyond its creation. On the other side of the Atlantic, Baron Philippe de Rothschild, of the esteemed Châteaux Mouton Rothschild and Lafite Rothschild in Bordeaux, was a business tycoon who had achieved success not only in the wine industry but also in the world of art labels. He was a visionary who believed that winemaking was an art that brought people together, celebrating the generosity of spirit and the passion of the heart. Robert Mondavi, a renowned American winemaker, was known for his pioneering work in California's Napa Valley. The Visionaries - Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de RothschildĪt the heart of the Opus One story are two iconic figures in the wine industry: Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild. The journey of this incredible Estate is a remarkable tale of collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of uncompromising quality. Opus One is a name synonymous with luxury and excellence in the world of fine wine.

2008 opus one napa valley red wine