Opus One Napa 1985

1985 was a great vintage for Napa Valley in general, and Opus retains a ruby red colour, with tawny edging. Well structured, great quality, clear texture through the heart of the wine, a little less freshness than vintages such as the 1979 but bursting with velvety, perfectly placed tannins. Tiptoes through the palate barely putting a foot wrong. Not a blockbuster, still in the European sensibility as it slides effortlessly towards tertiary character, with so much still to give. The first vintage where Patrick Léon of Mouton was winemaker alongside Tim Mondavi, at the tipping point towards a more modern style. 21 days skin contact.