2005 Buoncristiani Family Winery O.P.C. Napa Valley

95 points and an Editor's Choice, Wine Enthusiast: "Just gorgeous. Floods the mouth with decadent black currant, cherry, chocolate, anise, beef jerky and smoky oak flavors that stun for their addictive deliciousness. Yet it's perfectly dry, and the balance of rich, ripe tannins, acidity and smoky oak is near perfect. The wine is a blend of Bordeaux varieties and Syrah, from esteemed vineyards including Hyde, Stagecoach and Caldwell." The 2005 O.P.C is a proprietary blend of 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Syrah, 15% Merlot and 7% Malbec. This wine is pretty from nose to palate. On the nose is a beautiful balance of red and black fruit with just a hint of white pepper. The palate has bright cherry, cassis and plum with lovely Asian spice and just a hint of cinnamon. This wine is ripe yet structured. A light, balanced smokiness prevails throughout. It has to be one of the best Cabernet/Syrah blends I've tasted. Buoncristiani Family Winery has been on my radar for a couple years now. The wines are always beautifully made and very well balanced. This truly is a family business. The four Buoncristiani brothers all are involved in the day-to-day operations of the winery. All four brothers have worked in different capacities for wine producers such as Rudd Vineyards and Caldwell Vineyards. The fruit is sourced from some of the most respected vineyards in the Napa Valley such as the Caldwell, Stagecoach, Bennett and Hyde. (Mike Jordan, K&L Wine Merchants)