Opus One 1998 (3000ml)

Opus One 1998 (3000ml): A Rare Napa Valley Icon with Mature Elegance and Lasting Character

Opus One 1998 is a distinguished Napa Valley red wine born from the partnership between Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild and Robert Mondavi, two pioneers united by a vision of exceptional winemaking. Crafted in Oakville, California, this Bordeaux-style blend reflects a cool, extended growing season that allowed the grapes to ripen gradually into late October. The blend comprises 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot and Malbec combined. After 36 days of skin contact, the wine matured for 16 months in new French oak barrels, developing depth and complexity. Presented in an impressive 3000ml double-magnum format, it is an eye-catching choice for collectors and memorable celebrations.

In the glass, the 1998 vintage displays an intense, opaque purple hue. Its aromatic profile brings together ripe blackberries, fragrant vanilla, roasted espresso, and caramel. On the palate, the wine is supple and lush, with a resilient medium body, seamless texture, and sweet, polished tannins. The finish is long and persistent, allowing its dark-fruit richness and toasted nuances to linger gracefully.

The 1998 vintage stands out for its unusually cool growing season, shaped by El Niño-related winter flooding, foggy mornings, and moderate summer temperatures. The extended ripening period gave the estate time to harvest its five classic Bordeaux varieties under favourable conditions in September and October. Now a mature collectible, this large-format bottle offers a distinctive way to experience an established Napa Valley label. As with any wine of this age, its condition depends on storage and provenance, so careful handling and appropriate serving preparation are especially important.

For the best experience, stand the bottle upright before serving and open it carefully. Because the wine is decades old, taste it first and decant gently only if needed, as prolonged aeration may cause delicate mature aromas to fade. Serve at approximately 16 to 18°C in large Bordeaux-style glasses. Its savoury depth and structured character make it a natural partner for roast beef, lamb, grilled ribeye, mushroom dishes, or aged hard cheeses. The 3000ml format is particularly suited to a formal dinner, a milestone celebration, or a special gathering shared among wine enthusiasts.

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