Vintage 2001 produced small, concentrated berries and an excellent, unhurried harvest. The 2001 Opus One shows aromas of black currant, black cherry liqueur, plum, and fresh vanilla, with hints of graham cracker and black peppercorn. A supple, creamy entry is followed by intense flavors of ripe black cherry, cassis, and dark chocolate, finishing with lingering black fruit and savory spice.

"Starts with tons of rich new oak in the aroma, showing the most inviting notes of cedar, cigar box and pencil lead that segue to the remarkable fruit. The attack is powerful, with a punch of cassis spreading broadly and deeply across the palate. With its sturdy, clean tannins, this beautiful wine displays classic power, elegance and balance."

Deep ruby-red. Aromas of dark berries, spice cake, beefsteak tomato and meat. Suave, smooth, lush and mouthfilling, with sweetly oaky flavors of dark berries, mocha, smoke and game. Generous, pliant wine, finishing with chewy but ripe tannins and lingering sweetness. A return to form after a few difficult vintages for this bottling.