6 Favorites

Opus One

Mark as Favorite

Founded in 1979, Opus One invented the "ultra-premium" category in California Wine Country. The venerable Rothschild and Mondavi Families established the winery. Opus One uses a mix of traditional and modern farming methods.

Region: Napa Valley
Sub Region: Oakville
Wine: View all wines

Opus One was founded in 1979 as a partnership between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe Rothschild. That year, Tim Mondavi and Lucien Sionneau collaborated to make the project’s first wine. Vineyard acquisitions followed, including part of To Kalon and Ballestra.

By the mid 1980s, Opus One was selling over 10,000 cases of wine a year at a price point previously unheard of by a California producer. In 1991, the iconic winery building was completed on the east side of Highway 29. Scott Johnson’s design is a fusion of contemporary and classical architecture, accurately portraying Opus One’s philosophy in the vineyard and winery.

The success of Opus One begins in the vineyards. Their meticulous care of the vines produces only the finest grapes. Grapes that do not meet these high standards are discarded. Opus One uses an optimized mixture of traditional and modern farming methods to ensure the highest quality product.

The winery has evolved from producing 100% big Cabernet Sauvignon in the California style to more balanced, red Bordeaux blends. Opus One uses different percentages of the Bordeaux varietals including, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.


Recent Discussion – Opus One

  1. mewineau said:

    Over priced for what you get!!! NOT one of my favorties!

    Posted 668 days ago.

  2. jwino30 said:

    Great pic. You're right Jfrosh, they do give off that feeling. But their wine speaks for itself. A bit overpriced if you ask me, but premium quality non-the-less. I would still have to say that their wine is one of my favorites.

    Posted 1207 days ago.

  3. jfrosh said:

    They think they are so high and mighty.

    Posted 1217 days ago.

Join the discussion

Sign in to post a comment.

Not a member yet?

Sign up for free! or learn more



Cal Wineries Blog: See what’s new and interesting in California’s wine county. Go to the California Wine Blog

Join the community

If you’re interested in California wine, our community is perfect for you!

Learn more or Sign up for free!

About Calwineries

Ben Bicais Hello, my name is Ben Bicais, and I would like to personally welcome you to Calwineries. Growing up in the Napa Valley... Find out more.

Search the site