The 2010 Opus One is a luxurious Bordeaux-style red blend, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, crafted by Opus One Winery in Napa Valley. This vintage is known for its deep ruby/purple hue and explosive aromatics. It offers a complex bouquet of black currant, cassis, truffle, sweet charcoal, and spice box, with hints of rose petal, violets, lavender, and mint adding nuance. On the palate, it is full-bodied yet elegant, with velvety tannins, a vibrant mid-palate, and a long, rich finish. The wine reflects the meticulous winemaking of Opus One, a collaboration between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, aged for 18 months in new French oak barrels and an additional 15 months in bottle before release. The 2010 blend consists of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5.5% Merlot, 5.5% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec.
Critics Reviews
- Antonio Galloni: “Explosive throughout, the 2010 is every bit as compelling as it has always been. Hints of rose petal, violets, lavender, and mint add nuance as the wine turns a bit brighter and more floral over time.” He highlights its vibrancy and complexity, suggesting it remains a standout vintage.
- Robert Parker (The Wine Advocate): Described the 2010 as having “a glorious perfume of sweet charcoal, truffle, black currant, and spice box… full-bodied with plenty of spicy blackcurrant fruit, medium to full body, velvety tannins, and not a hard edge to be found. The texture, length, and richness are all impressive.” Rated it highly for its balance and approachability.
- General Consensus: The 2010 vintage is often praised for its structure, depth, and aging potential, earning scores in the mid-to-high 90s from critics like James Suckling and Wine Spectator in past reviews of Opus One vintages, though specific scores for 2010 may vary slightly.
Drink Window
The 2010 Opus One is drinking beautifully now (as of April 2, 2025) but has significant aging potential. Critics suggest it can evolve gracefully for another decade or more with proper cellaring. A reasonable drink window is 2014–2030+, with peak maturity likely between 2025–2035, depending on storage conditions. Its balanced structure and fine tannins support long-term development.
Food Pairings
This robust yet refined wine pairs excellently with hearty dishes that complement its rich fruit and savory notes:
- Red Meats: Grilled or roasted steak (e.g., ribeye or filet mignon), lamb chops, or braised short ribs.
- Game: Venison or duck with a berry reduction sauce.
- Rich Dishes: Truffle-infused risotto, beef Wellington, or a dark chocolate dessert for a decadent finish.
- Cheeses: Aged cheddar, gouda, or a creamy blue cheese like Gorgonzola. The wine’s acidity and tannins cut through fatty dishes, while its fruit and spice enhance bold flavors.
This vintage is a collector’s gem, balancing immediate enjoyment with long-term investment potential.
