Closed and tight right now, there are clear bright and well-defined cassis notes but those tannins still have grip and attitude, and it is pretty clear that a full ten years in bottle is not always enough to fully soften Opus. This vintage saw a very low yield, two tonnes instead of the usual four, due not only to the heat spell in September but also because it was the last year of an irrigation programe where they were restricting water to drive the roots further down into the soil. 1% Malbec, 8% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 22 days skin contact. (Drink between 2021-2040)

Fabulous roses, currants and dark berries on the nose that go to currants and blueberries. Full and refined with bright acidity and a precise and vivid finish of dark fruits and hints of cream. Some orange peel too. Pretty tannins. Better after 2014.

The 2008 Opus One showed well, with medium to full-bodied richness as well as some classic, mature Cabernet notes of smoked tobacco, truffle, celery seed, and chocolate-laced darker fruits. It has a good sense of finesse and elegance, is nicely balanced, and incredibly satisfying today. It should keep through 2033 or thereabout, although there’s no need to hold off.

Graceful and elegant very understated and delicate with floral spice mint bay leaf currant cedar and tobacco notes that are complex and vibrant. Full-bodied gaining on the finish then firming and drying. Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot Merlot Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Drink now through 2021. 16500 cases made.