Last year we broke new ground and sparked a wine industry sensation with the release of our inaugural Vranac—the first ever American-grown bottling of this classic Balkan grape variety.
Now comes our follow-up release: the 2022 Vranac Reserve, crafted from a special selection of three barrels. This wine hails from our estate vineyard in the Willow Creek District of Paso Robles, home of California’s first authenticated planting of Vranac.
Prized for its dark color, deep textures and intense flavor profile, Vranac is the most widely planted grape in Montenegro and is also popular in Serbia, Croatia, Macedonia and elsewhere. Opolo co-owner Rick Quinn’s grandfather hailed from Montenegro. Balkan heritage and cuisine have been at the heart of the Opolo experience since Rick and partner David Nichols established their family winery in 1999.
“Our inaugural 2021 vintage was an overnight sensation and sold out quickly,” Rick says. “People were eager to try something completely unique different in the world of California wine. This new vintage continues the story and reinforces why Vranac has a promising future here in Paso Robles. Personally, it means a lot to us to shine a light on this great Balkan grape.”
Pronounced “vrah-nuts,” the name Vranac is derived from a word signifying “black stallion,” a nod to the grape’s signature dark color and flavors. True to form, the 2022 Vranac Reserve is dark, concentrated and structured—a true Balkan-style rendition with a Paso Robles flair.
The wine was aged for 32 months and we also held it back in the bottle for an extra eight months, allowing its naturally bold tannins to round into form before release. Only 33 cases were produced – get it while you can!
Our 2022 Vranac Reserve is available for purchase at our estate tasting room at 7110 Vineyard Drive or by giving us a call at (805) 238- 9593.
Due to the limited production, 2 bottles may be purchased per person.
