Abundant sunlight in the previous vintage produced high fertility in the vine buds and a large crop in 1997, which Opus One thinned to the lowest per-acre yield in a decade. Though Napa Valley sustained rains in late August, Opus One’s vineyards were unaffected, as warm winds dried the vineyards quickly. Harvest was early and very compact, comprising just 11 days. The 1997 Opus One offers concentrated aromas of vanilla, licorice, sandalwood and toasty oak. Showing supple tannins, its silky-smooth palate accompanies flavors of blackberry-cassis, clove and roasted coffee. Powerful yet harmonious, the 1997 promises a long life in the bottle.

Cabernet Sauvignon 82%, Cabernet Franc 8%, Merlot 5%, Malbec 4% and Petit Verdot 1%