Opus One 2011

The 2011 Opus One may turn out to be one of the surprises of the year. A brilliant, precise wine, the 2011 impresses for its energy. Sweet floral and spiced notes lead to expressive dark red berries, mocha, anise and new leather in a brilliant Opus One. Readers will note the lower than normal presence of Cabernet Sauvignon in the 2011, which is typical for a year in which blenders play an important role. The blend is 71% Cabernet, 11% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec.

As the most Bordelais vintage of the new millenium, the 2011 Opus One is one that will appeal to tasters with classical sensibilities. A complex bouquet of cassis, blackberry, rich soil, tobacco leaf and cedar, with a nice framing of new oak, is followed on the palate by a savoury, well-balanced and authoritative wine with good concentration and length. 2011 was a very challenging vintage, but the team at Opus One did an excellent job indeed. Drink 2016-30.