A Bordeaux-style red blend, Oonapais is named after the trees found on Sonoma Mountain. Whether that implies some mystical influence or not, the wine called Oonapais is a statement in and of itself. Exhibiting a nose of dark fruits, spice and mocha, it delivers those aromas on the palate as well, along with a fleshy texture and supple tannins that make for easy drinking now, although I wouldn’t hesitate to cellar this wine for up to 10 years or more. A Platinum Award Winner at the 2020 San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge.
Benziger Estate, Sonoma Valley (California) 2017
By Robert Whitley