1997 Opus One

The 1997 Opus One tastes like it was made yesterday, not 16 years ago. One of the most opulent, racy wines in this vertical, the 1997 literally explodes from the glass. Juicy dark red cherries, menthol, tobacco and licorice all make an appearance as the 1997 opens up over time. Readers holding the 1997 are in for a thrill. Even though the growing season was defined by hot weather, a short maturation cycle and a large crop, the wine turned out beautifully. In 1997 the blend is 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, 4% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot, a first for Opus One. (AG)

Very vigorous crimson. Looks exceptionally healthy. Still quite a ‘buried’ bouquet. Big and bold and sweet on the palate delivering lots of pleasure. Quite powerful but at least there is fruit on the front palate to compensate for lots of very fine tannins at the end. (JR)

First vintage to be made from as much as 90% estate fruit. Extensive sunlight in 1996 led to heavy fruit set and then crop thinning to lowest per acre yield in a decade. Rapid harvest spread over only 11 days. Cabernet Sauvignon 82%, Cabernet Franc 8%, Merlot 5%, Malbec 4%, Petit Verdot 1%. Skin contact 32 days, 18 months in new French oak. Exceptionally deep crimson. Very, very dense and introvert. Unforthcoming now, but very convincing. Extremely dense, velvety, and voluptuous. I’m afraid I thought of Mendoza and ink at first because of that combination of velvetiness and astringency, but it should be very good eventually. Very dry finish. (JR)