Vienna Orchestra

Is there a cheaper wine that is similar to Robert Mondavi Opus One?

The Opus One is very pricey. Sure would like to find one that taste just like it for a lot less cash.

Public Comments

1. Nothing worse than a cheap drunk. heee hee. Only kidding. Buy what you can afford or save your money and make up for lost time when you do.
2. first off, opus one is no longer robert mondavi brand. It was a joint venture between mondavi and the rothschilds of france. However it is now owned by Constellation who purhcased the RMW group two years ago. 2nd I don't think opus one is that great of a wine. as an alternative try Joseph Phelps Insignia. Current release is 2003 vintage and very tasty. Should be able to find it for $129 a bottle.
3. Opus One is a "meritage" wine from Napa, California. "Meritage" means that it is a California wine that is comprised of a blend of multiple grapes, with the primary being Cabernet Sauvingon. These wines are all based upon the centuries-old tradition of blending Cabernet with other supporting grapes that was established in Bordeaux, France. Opus one was originally a joint venture between Robert Mondavi (an American winemaker) and the baroness responsible Chateau Mouton Rothschild (a french wine icon). For similar wines, look for labels with the words "meritage," "claret," or "Bordeaux-style blend." Meritage wines from Napa will be the most similar. Consider Ramey Wine Cellars "Claret" ($38) as a less expensive alternative similar to Opus One. Also close in flavor profile would be California "straight" Cabernet and French Bordeaux. I recommend Pride Cabernet Sauvingon and Chateau Leoville Barton in those two groups, respectively. (Both about $60 if purchased on release). For what its worth, Opus One is generally considered to have under-performed in recent vintages relative to its price and reputation. Many far less expensive (similar) wines have received higher marks from critics, and it is entirely possible that you will find a more affordable wine that you prefer to Opus One.
4. Opus one is a good wine but it is way overpriced. Some other good Meritages of similar style are: Cain cuvee about $30?? Estancia Meritage $25 Chateau St. Jean Cinq Cepages $75 Beringer Knight's Valley Alluvium $25 Bernardus Marinus $35 There are many others. If you have a reputable wine shop in your area, ask them to show you some. You might also want to try a really good Washington state Cab or blend like Betz or Andrew Will... they rock! If you really want to spend Opus money ... the Phelps Insignia, Dominus or Cask 23 are just as good or better. Good luck.