Opolo Vineyards in Paso Robles is probably best known for their Zinfandels. That's no surprise as they make several Zins in a range of styles and designations. However, Opolo also makes a host of other wines. Some of their Bordeaux varietals and blends are particularly compelling. Today I'm looking at their current Cabernet Sauvignon release.
The 2005 Opolo Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% varietal and all Paso Robles fruit. This wine spent 18 months in a combination of 40% new French oak and the balance in American oak. 1,035 cases of this offering were produced and the suggested retail price is $30.
Rich ripe casis fills and dominates the nose which is underpinned by eucalyptus, cedar, nutmeg and dark plum notes in a supporting role. The Opolo Cabernet is opulent and ripe throughout the palate offering a mouth filling experience. Dark, lavish berry fruit fills the mid-palate along with some dark bakers chocolate notes that carry on towards the finish, which lingers. That finish brings out a load of bing cherry notes and additional chocolate characteristics. This wine is fun to drink on its own but will also pair well with substantial food. A Steak would be perfect.
What I like best about this Cabernet Sauvignon is how smooth it is right now. It drinks incredibly easily for a young Cabernet and that's its intent. This is a big, bright, hedonistic Cabernet Sauvignon built to drink now. It'll certainly hold for a couple of years, but this one is not for long term aging. Drink it while it's young, bold and brash.
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