1988 Opus One [D94][V92][WA91]

"This wine stands out in the line-up, with spicy black olive and rosemary notes, great concentration of fruit and an expansive feel through the mid-palate. Low yields from a growing season that was not easy, and interstingly here the alcohol has tipped over 13% and we don't see it under that level again. Firm tannins that are still very much holding court, and this has plenty of life ahead. 28 days skin contact." 

"A layered, impeccably graceful wine, the 1988 Opus One is all about textural harmony and balance. Sweet, silky tannins wrap around the expressive fruit in a wine that stands out for its overall harmony. Dark plums, leather, tobacco and spices linger on the polished finish. This is another Opus One that relies more on balance than on pure size. The Cabernet Sauvignon is quite low in this vintage at 85%, while Cabernet Franc, at 13%, is much more pronounced. A dollop of Merlot rounds out the blend." 

Wine Advocate, 91 Points 

"Medium to deep garnet-brick colour. Savoury/ earthy notes of soy, hung meat, sweaty leather, tobacco, truffle, a suggestion of cardamom and a slight medicinal/menthol character. The palate gives a high level of acidity with a medium level of silky tannins and a good concentration of spicy, savoury fruit. Long finish."