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Opus One was founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, legendary proprietor of Château Mouton Rothschild, and renowned Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. By combining the great winemaking traditions and innovations of both families, the founders’ singular goal was to create an exceptional wine in the heart of Napa Valley. Opus One, like any great work, arose out of passion. Dedicated to uncompromised quality, Opus One’s sole purpose is to express this vision and passionate spirit for generations to come.

Following early-winter rains, which provided 12 inches more rain than the previous year, the late-winter months were unseasonably dry. Late spring weather was turbulent, but did not impact flowering or fruit set. Extreme temperatures during harvest made for a delicate dance by our seasoned vineyard team. Pre-emptive measures were taken in advance of this heat wave; ripe fruit was harvested, and selective irrigation was used based on the needs of the vines. The results were astonishing, with marvelous flavors and exceptional freshness. 

Opus One 2022 exudes charm and sophistication from the glass. Primary aromas of blueberry, cassis, and dried rose petals with underlying notes of olive, cigar box, and graphite create a rich and inviting bouquet. On the palate, bright red-fruit flavors, cocoa, and fresh orange peel waltz together into a harmonious and balanced profile. 

Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels.

Long and elegant, the finish delivers touches of wet stone, vanilla, and a hint of coffee. Fine-grained tannins and juicy ripeness signal the promise of a long future in the cellar.

86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec 

~95-97 - The Wine Independent

The 2022 Opus One is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec. Winemaker Michael Silacci explained that this vintage marked the earliest pick ever at Opus One, beginning on 5 September. 'I saw a tsunami of heat coming and said we will pick.' Silacci added that the rush to pick reminded him of a line in the song 'Umbrella' by Jay-Z and Rihanna: 'We fly higher than the weather, in G5S or better... in anticipation...' And given the heat dome that settled over Napa Valley, it seemed a wise decision—deep ruby color with a purple-tawny rim in the glass. The aromas are high-toned with cassis and graphite, and a cinnamon-dusted red berry character, nuanced by the woody, spicy aromas of just-cut rose stems balanced by fresh rose petals and dark chocolate. On the palate, it's a creamy wine with a bit more satin or velvet texture than the 2021, and a touch more sweetness in the berry fruit, but balanced by the textural integrity of the tannins. The finish is sweetly floral and tamed by a salty mineral quality that lingers. There's a real brightness to this wine as it opens in the glass. ~97 Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter

Generous, with savory aromas of ripe blackcurrants and fresh black cherries, and a gentle texture that shows a slight nip of tannin. It is well-structured and a bit tight, which is normal for a young Cabernet Sauvignon-based red that’s a proven collectible. Gives up graphite and pencil shavings, as well as some cocoa and espresso. Full-bodied. Spicy, toasty oak is really showing through right now. Best from 2028. ~ 96 James Suckling

Picked before, during and after the year's early September heat, the 2022 Opus One—a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 6.5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot and 0.5% Malbec—admirably reflects the vintage, boasting a ripe, extroverted personality but also a slightly open-knit, coarser mouthfeel than either the 2021 or 2023. Rosemary and sandalwood notes accent cherries on the nose, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is expansive and plush, finishing with ample length and soft tannins.

In 2025, winemaker Michael Silacci celebrates his 25th harvest with Opus One, a wine that has arguably grown in stature under his stewardship, despite starting from a lofty position. Founded as a joint venture between Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Opus One now boasts its own winemaking team, vineyards and winery, while also sharing vineyard resources with Mondavi and receiving blending advice from the team at Château Mouton-Rothschild.

For this tasting, Silacci and I were joined by Meghan Zobeck, newly appointed director of winemaking (previously winemaker at Burgess) and Alaina Velasquez, research manager. Velasquez's current project is attempting to isolate strains of malolactic bacteria. The winery already utilizes its own strain of yeast for primary fermentation. ~95 Wine Advocate

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