1997 Opus One

Full medium red, not particularly bright. Fully mature, slightly rustic aromas of plum, leather and cedary cigar box, with hints of game and veggies. Began savory and quite dry, even a little tart and spiky as if in decline, then gained in roundness in the glass, showing a somewhat darker fruit character. The brett suggestions faded with air but the greenness remained behind. Ultimately fairly suave in the middle palate but the initially fine-grained tannins turned a bit gritty with air.

- Stephen Tanzer (03/2017)

Medium to deep garnet-brick in color, the 1997 Opus One sashays out with alluring notes of kirsch, dried raspberries, and rose oil giving way to nuances of underbrush, graphite, and dried thyme. The medium to full-bodied palate is coated with a seductively rich mid-palate of red and black fruit preserves flavors, supported by firm, grainy tannins and well-knit freshness, finishing long and fragrant. What a beauty! (06/2024)

A rich, decidedly earthy style of Opus, showing currant, anise, black cherry, mineral, leather and sage flavors that are focused and complex. Drink now through 2010. 26,000 cases made.

- J.L.