Composing Opus One

The legacy of Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild lives on in a new team of young talent

Michael Silacci surveys surrounding vineyards from the roof of Opus One’s main winery building in Napa, California.
Opus One winemaker Michael Silacci surveys surrounding vineyards from atop the winery. In the past two decades, he has focused on the vines. (Cody Pickens)

Mix one part California go-getter with one part Bordeaux legend, add prime Napa Valley terroir, and the result is a Cabernet-based red that established American wine in the global arena. In this story, we trace the dream of Opus One founders Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild from the winery’s inception in 1979 to its present-day pinnacle. Learn about the birth of Opus One and the story behind its iconic California wines in this issue’s cover story!

Member-Only Content

Premium Subscription

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 450,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Start Free 30-day Trial

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 425,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

Subscribe today

You Might Also Like

Roederer Estate Reborn

Roederer Estate Reborn

A revitalized visitors center gives this Anderson Valley sparkling wine house a chic new …

Oct 16, 2025
French Court Tries Winemaker for Selling Counterfeit Champagne

French Court Tries Winemaker for Selling Counterfeit Champagne

Champagne counterfeiter convicted, and remembering Frédéric Panaïotis and Nicolas Potel

Oct 31, 2025
To Kalon Creek? No Such Place, Feds Say

To Kalon Creek? No Such Place, Feds Say

Constellation Brands prevails in the To Kalon name battle

Oct 31, 2025
Champagne Cork Lands on Centre Court

Champagne Cork Lands on Centre Court

Plus, Avaline partners with Stella McCartney on a new rosé label 

Oct 31, 2025
Nicolas Joly and His Loire Valley Wines Remain Outspoken

Nicolas Joly and His Loire Valley Wines Remain Outspoken

A longtime evangelist for biodynamic farming, Nicolas Joly is as zealous as ever

Sep 30, 2025
Counterfeit Crusader Auctions Cellar

Counterfeit Crusader Auctions Cellar

Wine collector Bill Koch puts nearly 7,800 bottles on the block at Christie’s

Sep 30, 2025