The International King of Cab Comes to Montecito

Opus One is the powerfully elegant marriage of Old World and New, reflecting the philosophy of founders Baron Philippine de Rothschild and Robert Mondavi. Now it’s coming to Santa Barbara, in the form of winemaker Michael Silacci, who will be giving an introduction to his globally acclaimed wines and pouring a vertical of 2007-2010 Opus One at a dinner for a mere 35 lucky people at the Four Seasons The Biltmore. Independent Foodie Award-winning chef Alessandro Cartumini has crafted a four-course menu plus reception appetizers to match these wines, featuring everything from hamachi crudo on rye crostino with poppy-seed dressing, to whole-roasted rib eye and short-rib duo with parsnip puree and apple slaw.

“I believe Opus One defined the evolution of California cabs,” Cartumini says. “All vintages are somewhat different; this is why you can pair them with different courses.” Listening to Silacci, it makes perfect sense how much weather affected each of the vintages, and he ends claiming and proving how entertaining he’ll be at the lecture. “The 2010 vintage was the most challenging we have ever experienced. The spring rains, cool summer temperatures, followed by a few heat spells, made the vintage read like a Victor Hugo novel with a happy ending. The wine is brilliant and with intense fruit and earthy notes.” This wine dinner will certainly be one to inspire the writing of amazing tomes.

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Indulge at the Opus One Wine Dinner, Friday, November 8, at Bella Vista Restaurant, Four Seasons The Biltmore, 1260 Channel Drive. Reception/lecture at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. Cost is $265 plus tax and tip. Call (805) 565-8232 or visit fourseasons.com/santabarbara.