Proprietary Red wine 2012 Opus one — 9955 — 9955

Cabernet Sauvignon is the primary grape variety in this Napa Valley red wine; in the 2012 vintage, it accounted for 79% of the blend, along with 7% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot, and 2% Malbec. That year, Opus one was harvested between 21 September and 20 October, following a mild spring and a growing season that Napa growers described as nearly ideal. During fermentation, the grapes underwent 18 days of skin contact, followed by 18 months of aging entirely in new French oak barrels. Although the oak aroma is quite strong, it is well supported by rich aromas of blackcurrant and dark chocolate, with savoury and earthy notes underlying the profile. Full-bodied yet smooth, it offers refined tannins and a long, sophisticated finish. The winemaking for this wine is the work of the Mouton Rothschild team, who represent the Bordeaux side of the partnership that operates this winery. It is ready to drink now, though it benefits from about an hour of decanting. It will be at its best through 2044