93 Decanter

A long, cool growing season in 2000 and you can feel this through the character of the fruit, which has less intensity that some vintages, still with sweet blueberry and raspberry, with caressing soft tannins that are a little more open than you might expect. At this point Opus was still being made by the team at the Mondavi vineyards, and there was a growing awareness that they needed their own team; able to focus on exactly what they needed (these things are always more obvious in a difficult year, as there are so many vineyard choices to be taken). 3% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 44 days skin contact. (9/2019)

92 Wine Enthusiast

Made in the Opus style, which is graceful, limpid and elegant, but with hidden depths of authority and power. The blackberry, cherry and oak flavors are pretty, but the wine is most notable for its harmony and grace. Tannins play only a supportive role, but they will let this wine age effortlessly for many years.

91 Vinous

The 2000 Opus One comes across as a smaller-scaled version of 1997. It shares much of the exuberance and raciness of that year, but with less structure. Readers who enjoy the riper Opus Ones and are looking for a vintage to drink today should consider the 2000. Today the 2000 is peaking. It is hard to see much upside from further cellaring. Hints of truffle, black pepper and orange peel linger on the exotic, beguiling finish. The blend is 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot. 

About Opus One

Established by two of the wine world’s most respected figures, Opus One, based in Oakville, California is one of the world’s elite wineries. The idea of a joint venture was born in 1970 when Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild met in Hawaii, but the concept did not materialize until 1978 when Mondavi paid a visit to Château Mouton Rothschild.

Winery Notes

VINTAGE: 2000 Normal winter rainfall and slightly warmer temperatures in early spring led to an early bud break in Opus One’s vineyards, followed by a mild summer. Although veraison was also early, sustained cool temperatures over the summer led to slow ripening and an extended harvest, which started August 26th and concluded on October 27th. With a moderate to deep ruby color, the 2000 Opus One shows aromas of sandalwood, leather, caramel and a hint of anise. Soft and plush in the mouth, the wine offers flavors of plums and black licorice supported by sweet tannins and a long, intense finish.
VARIETALS: Cabernet Sauvignon 84%, Merlot 6%, Cabernet Franc 5%, Malbec 3% and Petit Verdot 2%
SKIN CONTACT: 44 days
BARREL AGING: 19 months in new French oak