Introducing the exquisite 2017 Opus One Proprietary Red Wine, a true gem hailing from the esteemed Napa Valley in California. This exceptional wine is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.5% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 4.5% Merlot, and 1% Malbec, resulting in a harmonious and complex composition.
Pouring a medium to deep garnet-purple hue, the Opus One 2017 gradually unfolds its captivating aromas. Baked black cherries, mulberries, black raspberries, and warm cassis dance on the nose, accompanied by alluring hints of blackberry pie, spice cake, tapenade, and yeast extract. As the wine breathes, delicate notes of wild sage and dusty soil emerge, adding a touch of intrigue.
On the palate, this red beauty showcases a lively skip in its step, embodying a medium-bodied structure that is both elegant and refreshing. Juicy raspberry and cassis-laced fruit take center stage, delighting the senses with their vibrant and succulent nature. Ripe, plush tannins provide a solid backbone, ensuring a long and graceful finish.
Renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awards this Opus One vintage an impressive 95 points, praising its impeccable fruit quality and impeccable winemaking. Wine Spectator also lauds this wine, granting it a commendable score of 93. They describe it as featuring currant and plum fruit, complemented by tobacco, loam, and singed savory notes. The fine-grained structure leads to a lingering hint of acidity, showcasing a more subtle expression of Cabernet.
James Suckling adds his accolades, awarding this wine a well-deserved 95 points as well. He highlights the abundant currant and floral notes on the nose, accompanied by hints of mint and spice. The palate is medium-to-full-bodied, offering a round and savory experience with creamy, juicy tannins and a delightful touch of citrus.
Decanter magazine bestows an impressive 96 points upon this Opus One vintage, praising its balance and sculpted elegance. They remark on the fistfuls of late summer cherries, raspberry, and bilberry fruits that take center stage, exuding a juicy character. The wine's grip and creamy texture are accompanied by a strikingly powerful tannic frame, while floral aromatics gradually bloom up as the wine opens up. With a maceration period of 20 days and the use of native yeast, Opus One showcases their dedication to quality and tradition.
In conclusion, the 2017 Opus One Proprietary Red Wine is a brilliant expression of the Napa Valley terroir. Its impeccable balance, vibrant fruit, and graceful structure make it a true masterpiece. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future indulgence, this Opus One vintage promises to deliver a wine experience that is both bright and delicious.