Category: Wines of California

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

Temecula Valley Reports Historic Growth in Tourism: 3.4 Million Visitors and $1.1 Billion Economic Impact in 2024

Visit Temecula Valley released its 2024 Economic Impact of Travel report this week, revealing substantial growth in tourism-related activity for the region. According to data compiled by Dean Runyan Associates, the region welcomed a record-setting 3.4 million visitors, a 2.1% increase over 2023 and an 8.7% increase from pre-pandemic 2019 levels. The report underscores the expanding role of tourism in the local economy, with visitor-related spending generating $1.1 billion in economic output. Key metrics analyzed include visitation, expenditures, employment, labour income, and tax revenue, all of which reflect sustained post-pandemic recovery and economic resilience.

“While the broader tourism landscape faced challenges, Temecula Valley proudly surpassed all previous visitor number records, demonstrating exceptional growth,” said Scott A. Wilson, CEO of Visit Temecula Valley. “This achievement is a direct reflection of our tourism partners’ unwavering commitment to elevating Temecula Valley as a premium tourism destination and expanding our appeal to visitors from California, the wider U.S., and increasingly, the world.”

Temecula Valley, also known as Southern California Wine Country, benefits from a strategic geographical advantage. Situated approximately equidistant from Los Angeles and San Diego, the region boasts a substantial drive market, with nearly 23 million residents residing within a two-hour radius.”

It is a popular Southern California destination that includes Temecula Valley Wine Country, Old Town Temecula, and Pechanga Resort Casino. For further information: http://www.visittemeculavalley.com.

Hog Island Oysters by the Sea: A Quintessential California Coastline Experience

Situated along the windswept shore of Tomales Bay in Northern California, Hog Island Oysters is far more than a traditional oyster farm; it’s an immersive coastal experience that captures the character and heritage of the California coastline. Through its seamless blend of natural beauty, artisanal craftsmanship, and a strong sense of place, Hog Island Oysters has established itself as a landmark for both culinary and cultural exploration.

Hog Island Oysters is part rustic oyster shack, part inviting waterfront eatery, complemented by a working oyster farm and its accompanying facilities. Perched right on the water’s edge, it offers sweeping views across Tomales Bay. The crisp, salty air, the sight of seabirds gliding overhead, and the sound of waves create a serene backdrop, making it an ideal setting for an afternoon of shellfish and sunshine.

I found it more than a beautiful destination; it is also a working farm that has sustainably cultivated some of California’s finest oysters for over 40 years. Grown in the cold, mineral-rich waters of the bay, these plump, briny gems can be sampled right where they’re harvested. From shucking classes to “shuck your own” picnics,

We settled at a rustic wooden table by the water, a plate of a dozen freshly shucked oysters that were plump, savoury, and tasting like the very essence of the sea. Paired with a crisp glass of local sparkling wine, it was a moment that encapsulated the very best of the California coast. Hog Island Oysters is a reminder that life’s finest pleasures are often the simplest: a plate of fresh oysters, a panoramic view, and the sound of the sea. What more could one ask for?

A Napa Valley Icon: Oakville Grocery & Wine Merchant

While exploring Napa Valley recently, I couldn’t resist stopping by Oakville Grocery, a true icon of the region! Established in 1881, this historic spot is California’s oldest continually operating grocery, and you can feel its heritage the moment you walk through the door. It’s a beautifully curated space, packed with artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, house‑made salads, olive oils, and a bounty of delicious, locally sourced delights. It’s a paradise for food lovers, a time‑honoured piece of Napa’s charm, and an absolute must‑visit when you’re in wine country!

Right next door is Oakville Wine Merchant; this is a must‑visit for wine lovers! I found over 60 wines by the glass, featuring some of Napa’s finest producers! Housed in a charming 150‑year‑old Victorian building, it also serves as the 1881 Napa Wine History Museum. The tasting room combines historical significance with contemporary hospitality.  It’s a perfect spot to sample wines, examine their labels, and gain deeper insights into Napa Valley’s rich winemaking heritage.

Oakville Grocery and Oakville Wine Merchant occupy a prime location along Highway 29, in the heart of Napa Valley, within close proximity to iconic estates including: Opus One, Robert Mondavi, and Silver Oak. After attending the “Opus One Experience,” I found this historic venue to be a welcoming space for pausing, contemplating, and deepening my understanding of Napa Valley’s rich winemaking legacy.

I highly recommend visiting Oakville Grocery and Oakville Wine Merchant as essential destinations for anyone exploring Napa Valley. These two historic buildings embody a living testament to Napa’s rich heritage and cultural identity. Offering not only an exceptional selection of artisanal foods and world-class wines but also a deep connection to the region’s history, they provide a memorable complement to the celebrated wines and enduring traditions that have shaped this iconic terroir.

For further details: https://www.oakvillegrocery.com/

Hall Wines, Napa: A Legacy of Innovation Rooted in Napa Heritage

Nestled just off Highway 29 in St. Helena, Hall Wines is established on the storied Bergfeld Vineyard, an estate whose viticultural history dates back to 1885. This historic site was once home to the Napa Valley Co-Operative Winery, a pivotal institution that, at its peak, produced nearly 40% of the region’s total wine output, marking it as a cornerstone of early Napa Valley wine production.

In 2003, Craig and Kathryn Hall, visionary entrepreneurs and passionate stewards of fine wine, acquired the estate. Their commitment to honouring the property’s legacy while embracing sustainable innovation culminated in a decade-long transformation. By 2013, the Halls had completed an ambitious and sensitive restoration, seamlessly integrating the original stone winery with a state-of-the-art, gravity-flow winemaking facility. The new tasting room, a modern architectural landmark, is LEED® Gold-certified, reflecting the estate’s environmental ethos.

The estate itself encompasses approximately 33 acres at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains. Collectively, the Hall family cultivates over 500 acres across Napa Valley, dedicated to Bordeaux varietals. These vineyards span both valley floor and hillside sites and are farmed with a meticulous, low-yield philosophy rooted in sustainable viticulture, ensuring both quality and longevity in every bottle.

Arriving at Hall Wines: A Journey into Art, Architecture, and Napa Hospitality

Hall Wines sits in the heart of the Napa Valley “wine strip,” a stretch of road synonymous with legacy, innovation, and some of the most storied names in American wine. Just minutes from the Napa Valley Museum of Art & Culture, the estate blends its commitment to fine wine with an evident passion for contemporary art and sustainability.

Upon arrival, I was immediately greeted by one of Napa Valley’s most striking landmarks, “Bunny Foo Foo”, a towering 35-foot stainless steel rabbit sculpture by the late artist Lawrence Argent. Gleaming in the California sun, this whimsical figure stood at the estate’s entrance, playfully setting the stage for what would become a richly immersive and sensorial experience.

Driving up the estate’s long, manicured entryway, I arrived at the modern hospitality center, an architectural statement in glass, wood, and stone, unveiled in 2014 after a multi-year transformation. Inside, sleek design meets vineyard warmth. Expansive glass walls draw the eye westward over the estate’s vines, while curated art installations offer moments of quiet reflection.

Adjacent to the contemporary space is the restored Bergfeld stone winery, a 19th-century “ghost winery” brought back to life with care and respect for its historic bones. The juxtaposition of heritage and innovation is palpable throughout the estate.

Members Lounge

Hall’s Member Lounge provides an artisan sanctuary: open seven days a week, accessible by appointment only, and offers exclusive library wines and relaxed seated tastings. Members can bring food and enjoy comfortable couches overlooking the vineyards on the stunning terrace.

My tasting began on the outdoor terrace, along with some Hall Wines members, where the afternoon sun filtered across rows of Cabernet Sauvignon vines. What a stunning view! I found that Hall’s approach to hospitality is layered and thoughtful while offering a spectrum of experiences catering to both connoisseurs and wine enthusiasts, as follows:

Members Lounge Tasting for the day included:

2021 HALL Ellie’s Cabernet Sauvignon
92 Points Wine Enthusiast

2020 HALL Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon
The painting featured on the label was designed by Jack Reynolds, who was 18 months old as a Father’s Day gift for his father, Mike Reynolds, who was the winemaker at HALL Wines at the time. Mike Reynolds, now the president of HALL Wines.

2019 HALL Bergfeld St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon
95 Points Owen Barren

2021 HALL Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon
96-98 Points (in barrel) Jeb Dunnuck

What a stunning wine – my overall favorite !!

WINE REVIEW

2021 HALL Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon

The wine reveals the depth and intensity characteristic of this high-elevation site. In the glass, it presents a deep garnet hue. Aromatically expressive, it opens with layers of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and crushed violets, interwoven with graphite, cocoa, and hints of cedar. The palate is structured yet polished, showcasing ripe blackberry and cassis, supported by fine-grained tannins and well-integrated oak. A persistent mineral core and vibrant acidity carry through to a long, resonant finish. A compelling mountain Cabernet built for aging but already delivering elegance and power in equal measure – Stunning!

97 Points
Liz Palmer

Other Hall Wines tastings and Experiences include:

St. Helena – Platinum Experience – Discover HALL’s Expressions of Place
This is an exclusive, seated experience which features the coveted Platinum Collection and top-rated Artisan Collection Cabernets.

St. Helena – Cabernet Collector Experience
This is also an exclusive tasting experience which showcases HALL’s top-rated Mountain Cabernet Sauvignons, which are paired with seasonal bites.  This is perfect for collectors looking to explore Napa Valley’s premier appellations.

St. Helena – Signature Tour – A Walk Through Winemaking
With this experience, you take a guided walk through HALL’s vineyards and winemaking facilities, where you gain some insight into Hall’s sustainable practices and rich history.  After the walk, you participate in a tasting of their four award-winning wines paired with seasonal bites.

St. Helena – Reflections of the Valley – Bar Tasting in our Modern Gallery
With this experience, you savour a curated flight of award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, which is a standup tasting at their modern bar. Don’t forget to view the stunning vineyard views.

Hall Winery stands at the intersection of Napa’s storied past and forward-thinking future. The estate is simultaneously a cathedral of Cabernet, a canvas for art, and a leader in sustainability. From its first impression to final sip, Hall Wines is more than a tasting; it’s a narrative told through art, architecture, and world-class Napa Valley wine.