VINEYARD: Our 2007 Oonapais is a Demeter-certified Biodynamic® wine produced entirely from the Benziger Family Estate, nestled into the side of Sonoma Mountain. The Sonoma Mountain appellation is one of the smallest and most exclusive appellations in California. The Native Americans who first lived in the area were intimately familiar with the land and its diversity of sun exposures and soil types. They called it “Oonapais” after the Buckeye trees found on Sonoma Mountain.

VINTAGE:
A dry winter led to a fairly early bud break in 2007. Overall the growing season was evenly paced with a just a few heat spikes in the early summer. Warm August weather started harvest early, especially for early ripening varietals like Sauvignon Blanc. This vintage was certainly smaller in quantity than 2006, but in many cases the lower yields meant more concentrated flavors.

WINEMAKING:
Oonapais showcases the diverse and healthy environment in and around the Benziger Family Estate. In
2007 the blend is made up of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot
and 1% Zinfandel. This wine is made with traditional, hands-on methods. The grapes were hand sorted
in the vineyard, fermented in small tanks and serviced by hand with love and care. Native yeast and
malolactic bacteria were employed throughout. The wine was aged for 14 months in French oak - about 30% of the barrels were brand new - and bottled in June of 2009.

VINEYARD CERTIFICATION: certified Biodynamic®by Demeter