2009 Opus One
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2009 vintage saw cool temperatures during bloom and maturation, with two short heat spells in September. The harvest was 21 September to 'an exhilarating finish' on 20 October after record October rainfall. 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, 6%, Petit Verdot, 3% Merlot, 1% Malbec. 20-day skin contact. 17 months in new French oak. Layered crimson. Rather simpler on the nose than some vintages – a hint of candy store? Then very opulent, ripe and a bit more like stereotypical Napa Cab. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Love the crayon, pencil lead, cocoa bean dominance, along with fragrant peony and iris flower aromatics. Lean black fruit, cassis bud and rose stems, focusing on fragrance and spice. Tannic structure is gentle, almost entirely integrated at 15 years old, and it is in a sweet spot for drinking. Less concentrated than some. Harvest September 21 to October 20 after a record rainy month, 20 days skin contact. Michael Silacci director. Opus picks relatively early for Napa, and so had most of the grapes in the cellar before the second round of rain came.
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.
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.
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.
Product details
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec/ Auxerrois / Cot
Red
Dry