Rating: 99 Points (James
Suckling)
“Extremely perfumed and floral with lavender, lilacs and violets to the
sweet, ripe berries, such as blackberries and blackcurrants. Some slate and
graphite, too. It’s full-bodied, yet ever so balanced and refined, with super
fine tannins that last for minutes. Fresh herbs, such as bay leaf and lemon
grass highlight the dark fruit. The quality of tannin is exquisite with
wonderful polish and refinement. Lasts for minutes. So wonderful to taste
now, but better after 2026.”
Rating: 98 Points (Jeb Dunnuck)
“The 2018 Opus One is
a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, and the rest Merlot and
Cabernet Franc. This deep purple-hued effort leans to lively, fresher side of
the vintage but has a brilliant, utterly classic style in its crème de cassis
and blue-tinged fruit as well as notes of lead pencil, candied violets, damp
earth, and chocolate-like nuances. With a Pomerol-like elegance and purity,
it's medium to full-bodied and has wonderful tannins, flawless balance, and a
great finish. It plays in the finesse-driven end of the spectrum yet is
concentrated and seamless, with serious length. It offers pleasure today but
should benefit from 4-5 years in the cellar, and my money is on it evolving for
30 years or more.”