Wine reviews Archives

The Opus One Experience: Napa’s Crown Jewel of Wine Tasting

History and Vision

The story of Opus One is not simply that of a winery; it is the embodiment of a groundbreaking partnership that transformed American winemaking. Conceived in 1978 and officially founded in 1980, Opus One was born from the visionary alliance between two legendary figures: Baron Philippe de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild in Pauillac and Robert Mondavi, the pioneering force behind Napa Valley’s global reputation.

Their bold ambition was to create a single, world-class Bordeaux-style wine from Napa terroir, one that could stand alongside France’s First Growths. Initially dubbed Napamédoc, a name that reflected the transatlantic partnership, the winery adopted the name “Opus One” in 1982. This new name symbolized a harmonious blend of classical artistry and enological mastery. The debut vintages, 1979 and 1980, were jointly released in 1984 to great acclaim, priced at $50 per bottle, an unprecedented figure for a California wine at the time.

Architectural Grandeur

Nestled on the west side of Oakville’s iconic Highway 29, directly across from the original Robert Mondavi Winery, the Opus One estate is a stunning fusion of neoclassical elegance and Californian modernism. Completed in 1991, the architecture reflects the winery’s ethos, timeless, balanced, and quietly majestic.

From above, the estate takes the shape of a wine glass, a subtle nod to the artistry within. Inside, a sweeping spiral staircase and a luminous central atrium create a sense of reverence, much like entering a European museum.

The Partners’ Room

My tasting was held in the exclusive Partners’ Room, a glass-encased sanctuary offering sweeping 180-degree views of northern Napa Valley. Designed with understated luxury, the room captures the spirit of Opus One, refined, thoughtful, and rooted in precision. Reserved for private tastings, including verticals of rare library vintages, the space is adorned with archival photographs that honour the legacy of Rothschild and Mondavi. Here, architecture, landscape, and wine coalesce in a seamless tribute to partnership and vision.

A Philosophy of Precision

Opus One’s approach to winemaking is resolutely singular: to craft one exceptional wine from each vintage. Under the stewardship of winemaker and viticulturist Michael Silacci, every step of the process is carried out with painstaking attention to detail.

Grapes are harvested and sorted by hand, and gravity-flow systems are employed to preserve fruit integrity. Fermentation takes place in small stainless-steel tanks, allowing for extended maceration and maximum extraction of colour, structure, and aromatics. The result is a wine that is both powerful and elegant, a reflection of terroir and time.

The Opus One Tasting Experience

Guests are guided through curated tastings by Estate Ambassadors, who offer in-depth insights into the winery’s history, viticulture, and winemaking philosophy.

During my recent visit, I experienced an unforgettable vertical tasting in the Partners’ Room, hosted by the knowledgeable and gracious Therese Keating, Estate Ambassador. Ms Keating previously provided us with an in-depth insight into the Opus One’s history, viticulture and winemaking philosophy. Against a backdrop of breathtaking vineyard views, we explored three vintages: 2015, 2019, and 2021, each paired with meticulously crafted amuse-bouches.

2015 Opus One

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 81%, Cabernet Franc 7%, Merlot 6%, Petit Verdot 4%, Malbec 2%
Skin Contact: 21 days
Barrel Aging: 18 months in new French oak

Tasting Notes: A warm vintage showing opulence and depth. Aromas of dark plum, violet, and tea leaf give way to a lush palate of blackberry, cocoa, and baking spices. Creamy texture, fine tannins, and great balance.

Drink Window: 2025–2040

2019 Opus One

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 78%, Merlot 8%, Petit Verdot 6%, Malbec 2%
Skin Contact: 22 days
Barrel Aging: 19 months in new French oak

Tasting Notes: A composed and classic vintage. Notes of black currant, rose petal, and graphite lead into layers of espresso, dark chocolate, and savoury herbs. Silky texture, bright acidity, and a lingering finish.

Drink Window: 2025–2045

2021 Opus One

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 93%, Cabernet Franc 4%, Petit Verdot 2%, Merlot 0.5%, Malbec 0.5%
Skin Contact: 19 days
Barrel Aging: 19.5 months in new French oak

Tasting Notes: From one of the driest growing seasons on record, this vintage is defined by purity and finesse. Aromas of cassis, violet, and black cherry evolve into a palate of elegant tannins and a finish marked by truffle, vanilla, and spice.

Drink Window: 2029–2049

Each wine was paired with exquisite culinary expressions, from bacon and Roquefort canelés to truffle-scented morel gâteau, amplifying the sensory journey. This rare opportunity to observe how the estate’s wines evolve in character and structure over time was both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Final Reflections

Opus One is more than a wine estate; it is a living philosophy, where tradition and innovation are intertwined with purpose and grace. Every detail, from grape to glass, reflects a pursuit of perfection rooted in legacy and collaboration. For connoisseurs and collectors, a visit to Opus One is nothing short of a pilgrimage, an invitation to experience the art of fine winemaking at its most refined.

“The most unique wine tasting experience in Napa is at Opus One. Uncover the art of Bordeaux blends, breathtaking architecture, and a wine experience like no other.” — Liz Palmer

Opus One Winery

📍 7900 St. Helena Highway, Oakville, CA
🌐 https://en.opusonewinery.com

Enroute to the Vinho Verde Region [Portugal]

Heading northwest to the Vinho Verde region today. This regions spans from the Atlantic coast to the mountainous interior and iis shaped by a cool, wet climate and granitic soils that give rise to wines with distinct freshness and character.

Geography and Sub-Regions Vinho Verde lies within the broader Minho region and borders the Douro Valley and Trás-os-Montes to the East, and the Dão & Lafões region to the South. The region is segmented into nine sub-regions, each contributing its own microclimatic influence and grape-growing identity: 

·       Monção and Melgaço
·       Lima
·       Basto
·       Cávado
·       Ave
·       Amarante
·       Baião
·       Sousa
·       Paiva

From coastal vineyards to inland hills, these areas showcase incredible diversity in soil, elevation, and style.

Wine Styles: From Classic to Cutting-Edge Vinho Verde is traditionally celebrated for its crisp, low-alcohol white wines, often lightly effervescent and youthful in spirit. These wines, especially those made from Alvarinho, Loureiro, and Arinto are the perfect companions for fresh seafood.
Yet today’s Vinho Verde is far from one-dimensional. Winemakers are pushing boundaries, crafting orange wines, pet-nat sparklers, and oak-aged whites that rival more established categories. This evolution reflects the region’s balance of deep-rooted heritage and dynamic innovation.

What’s in a Name? “Vinho Verde” translates to “green wine,” but the term doesn’t refer to the color, instead, it captures the region’s essence: youthful, vibrant, and fresh. It’s a style that’s alive with acidity and minerality, echoing the region’s verdant landscape and Atlantic breezes.

Dievole Wine Resort: A Benchmark in Tuscan Wine Tourism Excellence

During my recent visit to Dievole Wine Resort, I conducted an in-depth exploration of the estate’s integrated wine tourism program, encompassing guided vineyard tours, curated gastronomic experiences, and a structured tasting of the estate’s wine portfolio. Here are my findings.

The Dievole Wine Resort exemplifies an exceptional model of integrated wine tourism, where viticulture, gastronomy, and heritage converge in the heart of Tuscany’s Chianti Classico region. Encompassing over 600 hectares of vineyards, olive groves, woods, and gardens, the estate is not merely a destination, but a deeply immersive cultural experience rooted in centuries of winemaking tradition.

At the core of Dievole’s enotourism strategy is its commitment to educating and engaging visitors through meticulously curated experiences. The Dievole Grand Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the estate’s unique terroir and its state-of-the-art winemaking facilities, including the visually striking circular Fidelio vineyard, cellar tours, and tutored tastings of flagship wines paired with regional specialties. For the oenologically curious, the Novecento Vertical Tasting delivers an analytical lens through which to examine vintage variation and the aging trajectory of Dievole’s iconic Chianti Classico Riserva Novecento, a wine steeped in historical significance and viticultural precision.

Complementing these in-depth offerings is the Classic Wine Tour, which provides a balanced introduction to Dievole’s core wines and acclaimed extra virgin olive oils. This dual focus on wine and oil underscores the estate’s broader philosophy of sustainable and diversified agriculture. These tastings are frequently followed by meals at the Novecento Restaurant, where seasonal Tuscan cuisine is prepared with elegant simplicity and paired with Dievole’s wines in a refined, rustic setting.

A Distinctive Hospitality Offering

Accommodation at Dievole is housed within beautifully restored 18th-century stone buildings. The suites, featuring traditional Tuscan textiles, exposed wooden beams, and terracotta floors, are designed to merge rustic authenticity with modern luxury. Each suite opens to expansive views of the vineyard and surrounding olive groves, reinforcing the immersive nature of the stay.

Mornings begin with a farm-to-table breakfast, showcasing honey harvested on-site, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked pastries, a tranquil prelude to a day of tastings, exploration, or relaxation by the pool. Evenings are reserved for gastronomic indulgence, with menu highlights such as hand-rolled pici pasta with wild boar ragù and the classic bistecca alla fiorentina.

Winemaking Excellence: Novecento Riserva 2019

Among the estate’s standout wines, the Novecento Chianti Classico Riserva 2019 emerges as a timeless representation of Sangiovese expression. First released in 1990 to commemorate Dievole’s millennium, its history traces back to a lease document dated May 1090; Novecento continues to honour its legacy with each vintage. The 2019 edition, marking its 30th harvest, offers an intricate portrait of the estate’s terroir: balsamic notes, licorice, black cherry, and violet dominate the aromatic profile, supported by firm structure and age-worthy elegance (10–15 years).

Vinified in large, tulip-shaped concrete vats and matured for 24 months in untoasted French oak, the wine balances tradition with innovation. A small percentage of Canaiolo and Colorino complements the Sangiovese core, creating layered complexity and refined restraint. With a limited production of approximately 30,000 bottles, the 2019 vintage exemplifies Dievole’s enduring pursuit of excellence.

Recommended Wines:

Novecento Chianti Classico Riserva, 2019
Vigna Sessina Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, 2020
Catignano Chianti Classico, 2021
Casanova Chianti Classico, 2021
Chianti Classico Petrignano, 2021
Chianti Classico, 2022

Tasting Highlights:
Novecento Riserva 2019

This Chianti Classico Riserva opens with a vibrant bouquet of black cherry, violet, and balsamic, with subtle tobacco notes. On the palate, it shows refined structure with ripe red currant and black cherry layered over hints of leather, anise, with some herbal notes. The oak is well-integrated without overpowering the fruit. With firm yet elegant tannins and a long, mineral-driven finish, this wine offers both immediate appeal and aging potential. A poised and expressive Riserva that captures the essence of Chianti Classico with clarity and finesse.

Score: 94/100
Liz Palmer

Aging potential: 10–15 years

Dievole Wine Resort transcends the conventional winery visit by offering a deeply holistic encounter with Tuscan culture. It is a compelling model of how wine estates can integrate storytelling, sustainability, and sensory engagement into a unified, enriching visitor experience. I found through our curated tastings, vineyard walks, gastronomic immersion, and luxurious Tuscan-style accommodations that Dievole stands as a benchmark for premium wine tourism in the Tuscany region.

Exploring the Heritage and Hospitality of Joseph Phelps Vineyards

Located in the heart of Napa Valley, Joseph Phelps Vineyards stands as a benchmark of American winemaking excellence and visionary legacy. The wine estate was founded in 1973 by Joseph Phelps, a Colorado construction magnate turned vintner. Joseph Phelps Vineyards helped shape the identity of Napa Valley wines on the global stage, most notably through “Insignia” the first proprietary Bordeaux-style blend in California.

The estate manages and cultivates 425 acres of vineyards across nine proprietary sites located in premier Napa Valley appellations, including St. Helena, Stags Leap District, Oakville, Rutherford, Oak Knoll District, Carneros, and South Napa. In its ongoing pursuit of optimal terroir for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the estate acquired and planted an additional 100 acres in 1999 on the western slopes of the Sonoma Coast. The estate is also a certified Napa Green Winery and a member of the Napa Valley Land Trust.

Joseph Phelps crafts wines from a diverse portfolio of grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, and Viognier, each selected to express the distinct characteristics of their respective terroirs.

Wine tourism is an integral aspect of the Joseph Phelps experience. Upon arrival, I was warmly welcomed at their architecturally harmonious estate with a glass of the 2022 Chardonnay, Pastorale Vineyard, Sonoma. The estate offers a range of curated tastings that highlight both single-vineyard selections and flagship wines. I had the opportunity to participate in the “Vineyard Terrace Experience,” a member-only tasting, along with some long-time members. The terrace offered panoramic views of the Napa Valley, featuring vineyards, and provided a breathtaking backdrop that elevated the tasting experience with a sense of place.

Other wines tasted were the 2022 Pinot Noir Bootlegger’s Hill Vineyard, 2021 Vin du Mistral, Central Coast, 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley and my favourite, the 2021 INSIGNIA, Napa Valley. I’m so thrilled to taste this one as this vintage is one of California’s most collectible Cabernet Sauvignons!

Joseph Phelps Insignia 2021

Tasting Notes:

This 2021 captivates the senses with vibrant aromas of black cherry, dark plum, and blackberry, subtly accented by wood and tobacco notes. On the palate, rich fruit and savoury undertones. Beautiful tannins, a great mid-palate, and outstanding length. This wine will express beautifully for years to come.

98 Points
Liz Palmer

Today, Joseph Phelps Vineyards forms an integral part of the LVMH portfolio, reinforcing its stature as a globally recognized benchmark of viticultural excellence. The enduring legacy of Joseph Phelps is reflected not only in the wines themselves but also in the estate’s continued pursuit of innovation, precision in craftsmanship, and its steadfast commitment to sustainable land stewardship.

Liz Palmer’s Exclusive Interview with Jamie Williams of Nederburg Wines, SA + Wine Tasting Notes

Jamie Williams’s career in winemaking began a decade ago with an internship in the laboratory and cellar at Die Bergkelder, the home of Fleur du Cap Wines in Stellenbosch. This opportunity followed her graduation with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from Stellenbosch University. Her passion for viticulture and oenology deepened in 2016 during a harvest season in Napa, California, where she gained valuable international experience. Williams further honed her skills through multiple harvests across the Stellenbosch District while also working in wine tasting rooms and sales to broaden her industry knowledge. In 2018, her dedication and expertise led to her appointment as assistant winemaker at Nederburg Wines , marking a significant milestone in her professional journey. Jamie is now Winemaker of White and Rose wines at Nederburg Wines.

Liz Palmer: Which influential women in the wine industry have inspired you throughout your journey?

Jamie Williams: I am very blessed to have worked with mostly women winemakers for the past 10 years! Andrea Freeborough who is the Head of winemaking for Heineken Beverages and Elmarie Botes who was the winemaker at Nederburg Wines when I started at Nederburg as an assistant, and both of whom I still work very closely with, has molded me into the winemaker I am today. Shaina Harding, winemaker at Hunnicutt Wines where I worked at in Napa Valley has shown me how tough women can be when working physically in the cellar and nothing is ever too heavy or difficult to do as a woman in the cellar, working with mostly men.

Liz Palmer: Could you share a particularly memorable experience or achievement in your illustrious career?

Jamie Williams: My most recent achievement winning Gold at the Drinks Business Global Sauvignon blanc Masters for the Nederburg Winemaster’s Sauvignon blanc 2024. Only one of 2 South African Wines to achieve Gold in that category.

Liz Palmer: Congratulations !!

Liz Palmer: What recent technological innovations have you and your team integrated into your winemaking process?

Jamie Williams: At Nederburg, we have always tried to maintain being a leader in innovative winemaking techniques. My approach this year, however, was taking it back to the past. We played around with some skin contact old vine Chenin Blanc in Amphorae clay pots that we have imported from Italy. On the analytical side we are sending our wines for sensory analysis and benchmarking how we are faring vs our competitors and what the consumer wants. Most of our wines are also vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

Liz Palmer: How do you ensure sustainability and uphold environmental responsibility in your vineyard and winery operations?

Jamie Williams: Nederburg Wines is IPW (Integrated Production of Wines) compliant, meaning we are fully traceable with production integrity of our wines we craft. We have also earned WWF Conservation Champion status, thanks to our water and energy conservation measures. On the farm we have also planted Grenache and Carignan which are drought-resistant varieties to combat climate change. Our delicate and sophisticated Winemaster’s Grenache Carignan Rose is made from these grapes.

Liz Palmer: What are your perspectives on the No and Low Alcohol Wine Revolution, and how has your wine estate adapted to this burgeoning movement?

Jamie Williams: As a winemaker, No and Low alcohol wine is not much used in my vocabulary as there is so much, chemically and sensorially, that alcohol brings to wine and to strip that away makes the wine not as beautiful as what you initially crafted. However, being a mom to currently 2 toddler boys, it is difficult for me to consume a bottle of wine with an alcohol of 13.5% or higher as my boys keep me on my toes. After 2 glasses I am done! This is why I understand the need for lower alcohol wines for enjoyment that will last longer. At Nederburg we have experimented with low alcohol wines in the cellar, but nothing in the bottle.

Liz Palmer: How do you and your team stay abreast of the latest trends and advancements in the wine industry?

Jamie Williams: We do constant benchmark tastings to ensure that we are abreast of our competitors. I also love to attend seminars where suppliers will offer their latest technology and hearing from other winemakers what has worked for them. The South African wine industry is very tight knit!

Liz Palmer: What advice would you offer to young women aspiring to enter the wine industry?

Jamie Williams: Be prepared to face challenges in this male dominated industry. I have been blessed enough to work with mostly women which made it easier for me to delve in, but I still faced challenges. Always work hard and believe in yourself. I have been told by another winemaker whom I looked up to that I will never be a winemaker. Those words just motivated me even more to prove them wrong. Always have God at the center and a good support system at home.

Wine Tasting Notes

Nederburg Heritage Heroes “The Brew Master” 2020

This is a wine of remarkable depth and refinement. Its dark ruby hue sets the stage for a sensory journey, with aromas of ripe blueberries and luscious black cherries intertwined with nuances of tobacco leaf, dark chocolate, with hints of spice. On the palate, the wine reveals a harmonious tannin structure, offering complexity and layers that unfold elegantly with every sip. Its long, enduring finish leaves an indelible impression of sophistication.

Crafted from a masterful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (64%), Petit Verdot (18%), Cabernet Franc (11%), Merlot (4%), and Malbec (3%), this wine is matured for 29 months in French and American oak, delivering a robust, fruit-forward character. With its powerful presence and rich fruit profile, Nederburg “The Brew Master” is a true expression of excellence.

Liz Palmer
92 Points

“Winemasters” Chardonnay Nederburg 2022

This wine is a testament to Nederburg’s dedication to crafting elegant and expressive wines. This Chardonnay showcases a vibrant and lively character, with aromas of honeyed apples and crisp citrus zest that leap from the glass. On the palate, it reveals a refreshing steely acidity, beautifully balanced by a creamy texture and subtle citrus and apricot. The wine’s texture is both clean and rounded, offering a harmonious interplay of freshness and richness.

Liz Palmer
91 Points