Opus One Napa 2001

Ruby plum colour, ever so gentle bricking around the edges but still a young wine visually. Love the powerful liqourice root on the opening, followed up by juicy blackberry fruit, with waves of iris and peony flowers. Sandalwood and incense rolls in through the mid palate, mouthwatering on the finish, with gentle tertiary notes as it moves into its full drinking window. Stretches out with a sense of languid confidence, still plenty of time ahead of it. Patrick Leon and Tim Mondavi winemakers, with Michael Silacci arriving in this vintage, although still a few years from taking over as sole winemaking director. Long harvest that lasted from September 1 to October 19. 32 days skin contact, 100% new French oak for ageing.