Very deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Opus One soars out of the glass with bright, bold boysenberries, warm cassis and ripe, juicy black plums notes, plus emerging nuances of lilacs, oolong tea, cinnamon stick, tilled soil and black truffles. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with tightly wound layers of crunchy black fruits, supported by firm, grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing with lifted fruitiness and on a lingering mineral note.

There is a confidence and an effortless quality to the winemaking at Opus, and it comes through clearly in this vintage. Expertly judged, a rich dollop of black cherry and juicy rich blackcurrant and blueberry fruit, laced with liquorice, rosebud and incense. The kick of heat is well managed and brought in line. Very good quality, tannins already have a succulence to them but it will improve with a few more years in bottle. 18 days skin contact, harvest September 19 to October 25. 100% new oak for ageing, Michael Silacci director.

The 2018 Opus One is absolutely exquisite. Bright red berry fruit, crushed flowers, mint and spice are all finely cut. The 2018 impresses with its energy and focus. It's a gorgeous wine, and is also showing especially well today, with all of the potential I first saw in barrel very much on display. Bright acids linger on the persistent finish. The 2018 is supremely elegant.

84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 5% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec. Aged for 17 months in new French oak. Stubborn, backward style, not only lighter than expected in body, but restrained in fruit. Structurally balanced and ready to drink, just not very aromatically eloquent. Dozing? (RH)