Buying options
Tasting notes
Along the same lines as the 2008, the 2009 Opus One is balanced and elegant, with a mature feel in its darker fruits as well as herbal, coffee, and chocolaty nuances. In general, most 2009s are drinking nicely today, and this certainly seems to be right in the middle of its prime drink window. Drink bottles over the coming decade.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Gorgeous texture, beautifully supple tannins, this is richly aromatic and juicy, with loganberry and raspberry fruits, touches of cocoa bean and crayon. The key difference with the Bordeaux First Growths in this fascinating horizontal tasting, where you can feel the Napa fingerprints, is in the brushed velvet texture that takes you through the mid palate, with a structure that is generously giving and inviting, showcasing autumnal berry fruits that are assertive while retaining balance, fresh acidities and spice. Gorgeous, showing exceptionally well, can be drunk today or cellared further. 100% new oak, Michael Silacci winemaker.
Aromas of orange peel, currants, olives and subtle rosemary. Full body with a beautiful balance of fine tannins and a fresh finish. Super-refined and beautiful. Better in 2015 but just drinking beautifully now. This 81% cabernet sauvignon, 9% cabernet franc, 4% merlot, 4% petit verdot and 2% malbec.
The 2009 Opus One is impeccable. It brings together the silkiness of the 2007 with the power and darkness of the 2008, a combination that is hugely appealing, to say the least. With a little air, the 2009 can be enjoyed young, but it is best cellared for at least a few years, which will allow some of the baby fat to drop off. The blend is 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot and 1% Malbec.
About the producer
Created by Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Opus One is one of the most famous wines and estates in the Napa Valley. Its iconic Cabernet Sauvignon combines the elegance and freshness of Bordeaux with the natural ripeness and opulence of Napa.