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Philosophy

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Principles

Dedicated to expressing a range of red—and a handful of white—wines from its estate in the Central Coast of California’s Ballard Canyon appellation within Santa Ynez Valley, Jonata is one of a new breed of producers throughout the world who are thriving with a non-traditional amalgam of varieties and blends. With a commitment in particular to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah, and informed by cutting edge viticulture, winemaking and a polyface approach to their estate, the Jonata wines are on the vanguard of an emerging quality movement in California winegrowing.

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Sustainability as a Way of Life

Jonata is dedicated to sustainability from the inside out; a principled approach to farming. With its use of polyface farming—as first introduced to America by Michael Pollan in his book “The Omnivore’s Dilemma”—Jonata integrates and revolves livestock (chickens, turkeys, goats, pigs and sheep) in their farming model, which naturally enhances the soil and health of their land not to mention that of the critters themselves and the Jonata community! We maintain a large communal garden and an orchard that produces our own estate olive oil along with honey from bees raised on the ranch. Water is used judiciously and with precision. Herbicides and pesticides don’t even enter the conversation.

Vineyard

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Estate

The name Jonata pays homage to the 1845 Spanish land grant, Rancho San Carlos de Jonata. At the time the land grant covered a large part of the Santa Ynez Valley. Today’s Jonata is at the heart of the former land grant. The Jonata name was borrowed by the first pioneers from the local Chumash Indian and means “tall oak”.

Out of the 586 acres acquired by Stan Kroenke, only 84 bear vines today. The highly sandy soil made the vineyard development intricate and the task was successfully done by Central Coast Vineyard Care Associates—the preeminent viticultural management company on the Central Coast. Forgoing conventional wisdom from the outset the estate was planted with a host of varieties that are rarely cultivated side-by-side, an audacious decision at the time that created a stir in the winegrowing community.

From the first harvest in 2004 and under the guidance of Matt Dees, Jonata’s winemaker, it became clear that—despite widespread skepticism—not only had the right decision been made to plant Syrah, Sangiovese and Bordeaux varieties but the meticulously farmed 84-acre vineyard could also produce extraordinary results. Encouraged by Stan Kroenke’s dedication to excellence, the estate has turned out a series of wines that have garnered substantial critical acclaim from Robert M. Parker Jr., Jeb Dunnuck, Antonio Galloni and Stephen Tanzer.

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Ballard Canyon

The Ballard Canyon in California’s Central Coast Santa Ynez Appellation is one of California’s most notable emerging locations for superlative Rhône variety wines; while few have succeeded with Cabernet varieties here, Jonata’s sandy site and its team’s winegrowing know-how have produced results that are widely recognized as the best ever seen from this region.

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Careaga Sand

According to the USGS maps, the entire Jonata property is comprised of sand—namely a soil found in the area called the Careaga Sandstone. Yet there are a number of blocks that show different iterations of this sand such as the mini-blocks that possess a degree of a Paso Robles soil type to others that have loamy soils yet both possess higher percentages of clay than the other blocks on the estate.

And now for a word on sand…

Soils have at least three different particle sizes: sand (0.05 to 2.0 mm diameter), silt (0.002 to 0.05 mm) and clay (less than 0.002 mm). Most soils are comprised of an amalgam of all three—although there are certainly exceptions.

Sandy soils generally have low fertility, high aerative properties (consider the particle size!) and low water holding capacity. The latter two are certainly related…the higher the aeration potential, the better the drainage. Consider too that sand doesn’t compact easily, like a loamy soil will. One thing to be noted: the sand particles here on the Jonata estate are rectangular shaped, an aspect that provides for better drainage than one might find in other sand-based vineyards.

In the hands of a neophyte, the combination of these elements in a vineyard would be disastrous; for an experienced vineyard manager and a true vigneron, these qualities provide the opportunity for near-perfect control. And yet, in some way, the mystery of its effect remains unclear, which is something we don’t want to answer entirely. What does sand impart that other soils don’t? We know that it has an effect on the texture of our wines and that it creates a different tannin profile than it would elsewhere. This is the beauty of getting to know a piece of land over time, sometimes it takes generations. We are dialing it in, as it were.

Our Team

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Matt Dees / Winemaker

There are some people who are educated toward certain positions in life and others who are born to assume them—and Matt Dees is what you’d call a natural winemaker.

Armed with a degree in Soil Science from the University of Vermont and Vintages at Staglin in Napa, California and Craggy Range in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, Matt has an intrinsic feel for wine, from dirt to glass. curious, earthy and experimental by nature, Matt’s approach to winemaking is grounded in the vineyard (pun intentional) first and foremost: attuned to the vines, the weather, the soil, Matt seems almost to be a part of the vineyard itself.

Not being bound by the conventions of the enological world of academia (no degree in winemaking here) has allowed Matt to come to an untethered philosophy of wine. Where Jonata is concerned, this is an important point: Jonata is an unconventional place that requires an unconventional, open mind to bring it to life.

Lastly, Matt has another very concrete talent: a keen feel for the shapes and dimension of tannin. Listening to him discuss the tannin elements found in Jonata wines is like listening to Buckminster Fuller describe the geodesic dome (which he invented), or like listening to the daring polyphonic construction of Bach’s Brandenburg concertos. Dees is a winemaker who’s emotionally and intellectually connected to structure, texture and tannin and explores these elements deeply in his wines.

Matt is assisted in the winery by Drew Pickering.

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Drew Pickering / Assistant Winemaker

A native of Sonoma County, Drew Pickering always knew he would eventually follow his passion of winemaking.  After completing his degree in history at San Francisco State University, he decided to pursue harvests at a couple of wineries in St. Helena in the heart of Napa Valley.  He then continued his journey across the globe at Saint Clair Family Estate in Marlborough and Craggy Range in Hawkes Bay to further fine tune his winemaking knowledge eventually settling at Jonata in 2009 as assistant winemaker to Matt Dees.

Drew resides with his wife and two wonderful children in the small town of Solvang.

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Ruben Solorzano / Vineyard Manager

The youngest of 11 children, Ruben was born in a farming family in Guadalajara, Mexico. While most of his siblings pursued teaching, he knew he wanted to continue his family’s tradition of tending the land. Shortly after moving to Santa Barbara County in the early 80’s, Ruben began working for Coastal Vineyard Care. He is now co-owner and is well known throughout the Central Coast region for his instinctual approach to farming, so much so it has become his trademark.

Early on Coastal Vineyard Care was hired to farm the Careaga sand of Jonata. Sandy vineyards offer two keystone elements to farming exceptional grapes: natural drainage and poor nutrients, resulting in a vineyard that is difficult to establish and farm. Attention to minute details and a constant presence are not just a luxury, they are a necessity. For Ruben, sandy vineyards speak naturally to him. His intuitive approach, his ability to discover the vines needs just by listening to the sound of the leaves in the wind, and his working relationship with Matt are what make Jonata’s wines so unique: Wines with a sense of place, wines that are real and alive.

Wines

View our current release and wines from previous years.

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El Desafio de Jonata
"The Defiance" Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc

548 Cases Produced

"Another classic Jonata cabernet sauvignon with red fruit and fresh green herbs; cassis and the refined earthy qualities that make Jonata unique in this world. Focused and pure black fruit on the attack with an added intensity in 2016. A wine of tremendous freshness. Balsamic and tobacco. Like 95% cacao chocolate with hints of fresh mint. Power like the epic 2015, but with more freshness and perhaps even more impact. A statuesque and chiseled cabernet with chewy tannin and a powerful backbone of acidity. Matt Dees, Winemaker

96 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2018
96+ Points Jeb Dunnuck  jebdunnuck.com October 2018
93-95 Points William Kelley The Wine Advocate April 2018

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90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot , 5% Petit Verdot

499 Cases Produced

"An unforgettable wine from two fermentation lots consisting of minuscule berries. Long and slow fermentations that allowed for maximum extraction under ideal conditions. Green mint, black cassis, pencil shavings. Black and red fruit with a creamy, expansive and sweet texture. Cedar and cigar notes. Voluptuous and packed with power. Tannins start early and build to an impressive intensity." Matt Dees, Winemaker

95 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown The Wine Advocate September 2017
98 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

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79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc
80% French oak and 20% neutral French oak
516 Cases Produced

"Darker and more brooding with the essence of cassis. Tight and coiled as we would hope at this “baby” stage. Great expansion of fruit on the attack shows its potential. Sweet and substantial tannins build early and help define this young cabernet sauvignon. An absolutely refined and classic Desafio. We can’t wait to watch this wine grow."  Matt Dees, Winemaker 

94 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com August 2017 
93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous August 2017

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87% cabernet sauvignon, 5% cabernet franc, 5% petit verdot, 3% merlot

80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak

377 Cases Produced


"Ripe red fruit moving to black fruit and fresh mushrooms. Perfumed and lifted. Cassis and freshly turned soil. Stunning combination of black and evergreen. Regal structure that starts out taut and fleshes out with time in the glass. Mint leaves. Coolness. Black olive and smoky fruit. Intense structure with beautifully robust tannins. Classic Jonata cabernet sauvignon." Matt Dees, Winemaker

96+ Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate August 2016 
97 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2016

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64% cabernet sauvignon, 16% cabernet franc, 15% petit verdot, 5% merlot

80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak

457 Cases Produced

"An evocative nose defined by true cassis and gorgeous dark green notes of licorice, dried herbs and nori. Muscular, dense and structured; everything cab should be. Manages to also be restrained with black fruit intertwined with dusty herbal notes. More darkness, more power, more complexity. Picks up momentum on the palate. Remains refined and somewhat reserved today. Stands in line with the legendary 2009 Desafio. Dark and brooding; another stunning defiance." Matt Dees, Winemaker

95 Points The Wine Advocate
94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous

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95% cabernet sauvignon, 3% merlot, 2% petit verdot
80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
510 Cases Produced

"Sings in the glass immediately. Much like its sister, El Alma, it has delicate earth and herbal notes. Cacao, black plum, espresso, dust and black licorice. It is a completely different beast on the palate. It is juicy and packed with mouthwatering fruit. Cabernet sauvignon thrived in 2011 and it shows immediately on the mid palate and long lingering finish. At 95% cabernet sauvignon, it is apparent that the “king of grapes” didn’t need any help from its Bordeaux brethren to fill any holes in tis vintage. This cabernet sauvignon fires on all cylinders.  It has monstrous intensity of fruit and palate filling chalky tannin. A sparkling and pristine presentation of Desafio." Matt Dees, Winemaker

95 Points The Wine Advocate
95 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous

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43% cabernet sauvignon, 32% cabernet franc, 11% merlot, 14% petit verdot
80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
430 Cases Produced

"Absolute 2010. One pick taken from nearly every block of merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and petit verdot. This complex blend shows the pronounced voice of each individual block and grape variety. The grapes were sorted in the vineyard during harvest to allow us to dodge the curve balls thrown at us in the form of numerous October rains. The best of the best and sadly the only Bordeaux lot worthy of the Jonata name in 2010. Unmatched in its layers of aromatic complexity, with decadent black fruit, hints of pepper, cool mineral notes, and the perfect touch of herbaceaousness. For those bemoaning the loss of Alma, the higher than normal percentage of cabernet franc in this blend comes screaming out of the glass with lavender and a cool minty side. The black fruit from the cabernet acts as the anchor with silky texture and a strong backbone of structure. Some flesh and plummy sweetness from the merlot rounds out the mid palate. The true miracle wine and a blend that speaks volumes to the powerful personality and toughness of the Jonata vineyard. Tightly coiled like the sangiovese with dusty tannins that will reward patience in the cellar. An unforgettable Desafio! The ultimate act of defiance; a ripe, layered and luscious Bordeaux blend from a patience-trying vintage." Matt Dees, Winemaker

93 Points The Wine Advocate
93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
94 Points Wine & Spirits

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80% cabernet sauvignon, 10% merlot, 5% cabernet franc, 5% petit verdot
80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
755 Cases Produced

"In this bottle of 2009 Desafio, we’ve produced what I consider to be the definition of Jonata cabernet: in the glass it displays classic cabernet notes of cassis, tobacco, cedar, subtle smoke and dark chocolate. There is a distinct earthiness to this blend that creates a great counterbalance to the immense fruit evident everywhere on this red. Plush and soft on the attack, the Desafio envelops the palate in silky black fruit and liquid minerality. Its formidable nature becomes even more evident as the cascade of tannins begins, coating the mouth with legions of firm, but incredibly fine grained tannins—a textural ride on the palate. For all of its ripeness and voluminous fruit, this wine remains sincere not only to the earthiness and complexity of cabernet sauvignon, but also to the unique cool climate of the Jonata terroir." Matt Dees, Winemaker

97 Points The Wine Advocate
94 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous

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84% cabernet sauvignon, 10% petit verdot , 4% cabernet franc, 2% merlot

85% new French oak, 15% neutral French oak

500 Cases Produced

"Much like the 2008 El Alma, this wine is defined by its grace and elegance. It displays the explosive Aromatics of the 2008 vintage with classic blackberry, cassis, black olive, mocha and cedar. It’s loaded with black fruit and full of tobacco, herbs and dust like the 2007, but with a level of delicacy that keeps the wine lighter and more active on the palate in its youth. At the same time, the density of the fruit sneaks up and surprises after the supple attack, leading in turn to extremely fine grained tannins that convey espresso bean notes and blackberries though a long lasting finish. The El Desafio 2008 is a complete wine that epitomizes the delicacy, focus and quiet power of the vintage." Matt Dees, Winemaker

93 Points The Wine Advocate
94 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
96 Points James Suckling

95% cabernet sauvignon, 2% merlot, 2% cabernet franc, 1% petit verdot

85% New French oak, 15% neutral French oak

527 Cases Produced

"Following in the footsteps of its Desafio predecessors, the 2007 displays classic notes of cassis, cedar and herbs, but with its impenetrable density, brooding aromas and teeth staining power alongside surprising elegance. This may well prove to be our most impressive and complete cabernet sauvignon expression to date. Dark chocolate covered raspberries, anise, mint and cigar box, barbeque smoke and black olive—sincere to variety with a Ballard Canyon/Santa Ynez Valley twist in its depth of black fruit and concentration." Matt Dees, Winemaker

  • 95-97 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 91 Points Wine Spectator
  • 84% cabernet sauvignon, 9% cabernet franc, 6% petit verdot, 1% merlot
  • 85% New French oak, 15% neutral French oak
  • 997 Cases Produced
  • "Bouquet of crème de cassis, black licorice and lifted black fruit jump from the glass. Complex touches of mint, cedar and loamy soil. Rose petals and cigar boxes. Bittersweet chocolate. Fresh red fruit and blackberry. Chewy and dense sweet black fruit, toasty hints and earthy notes on the palate. Supple, dusty tannins act to softly bring the wine to a crescendo of flavor and texture and lead to a lengthy finish reminiscent of fresh blackberries. An elegant and soft wine that surprises with its complexity and power." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 94-96 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 93% cabernet sauvignon, 5% merlot, 2% petit verdot
  • 85% New French Oak, 15% neutral French oak
  • 1128 Cases Produced
  • "Exhibiting a lifted nose that jumps out of the glass with piercing red fruit that mingles with black fruit and a complex combination of cigar box, exotic spices, herbal notes and toasty oak. Sweet black fruit and dusty earth explode in the mouth and move seamlessly to a finish with classic powerfully structured cabernet tannins. Very closed, young and tight. Benefit from extended cellaring/decanting to fully exhibit the full array of it power." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 94+ Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 92% cabernet sauvignon, 2% merlot
  • 85% New French Oak, 15% neutral French oak
  • 235 Cases Produced
  • "This wine displays the classic character of this noble grape with piercing aromas of pure cassis, cedar and dusty herbal notes dominating the nose. The texture of this wine is velvety smooth and full bodied. In the mouth it is intense and complex, shifting between the black fruit, dark chocolate and tobacco flavors. A strong acid backbone and soft fine grained tannins come together to form an elegant finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 91 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 88+ Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
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El Alma de Jonata
"The Soul" Cabernet Franc

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

86% Cabernet Franc, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot

205 Cases Produced

“Swirling and towering nose. Complex and sophisticated. Deep red, dark green and pitch black. Cassis, espresso bean, bay, thyme and rosemary. Ethereal and velvet fruit. Perfectly steeped black tea. Creamy and dense on the palate. Cocoa powder and dark chocolate. Drink earlier to enjoy the baby fat or put a few bottles away deep in your cellar as we’ve never seen an Alma quite like this. As if 2009 and 2015 Alma had a beautiful baby (with 2007’s perfect balance of course).” Matt Dees, Winemaker

93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2018
99 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com October 2018
91-93 Points  William Kelley The Wine Advocate April 2018

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74% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot , 2% Merlot

237 Cases Produced

"Impenetrable black color. Swirls out of the glass with deep, dark fruit and green cooling herbs. Classic cassis and black olive. Fleeting notes of lavender. Remains tight today, but can be coaxed out of its shell with air. Sweet bramble and ripe black plum. Opens to a monstrous and mouthwatering texture with tremendous concentration and freshness. Firm high quality tannins frame the fruit. A texturally thrilling and structurally intimidating Alma. One to lay down for a few years as it evolves into a classic"
Matt Dees, Winemaker

94 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown The Wine Advocate September 2017
98+ Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

 

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88% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon , 2% Petit Verdot
80% French oak, 20% neutral French oak
184 Cases Produced

"Perfumed and intoxicating nose of bright red fruit with earth-driven herbal hints, lavender and a lifted note of new leather. The Alma we’ve always aspired to produce. A wine of substance, complexity and charm. Wonderful interplay between sweet red fruit, dark herbal notes and chalky and lingering tannins. Fascinating and layered. A sincere and intense expression of cabernet franc."  Matt Dees, Winemaker
 

95 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com August 2017
93+ Points Wine Advocate August 2017
92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous August 2017

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81% cabernet franc, 16% cabernet sauvignon, 2% merlot, 1% petit verdot
80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
428 Cases Produced

"Coy and reserved at first, then ripe and musky on the nose with rosemary, mint, dark chocolate and perfumed incense. Black cherry, cassis and pine needles. Such a sensual nose. Supple dark chocolate and sweet black raspberries on the palate. Creamy and generous. Clove and pipe tobacco. Chalky and tight tannins reminiscent of cacao nibs. Reticent; showing voluptuousness then covering up. Fascinating Alma displaying the poetic side of Franc." Matt Dees, Winemaker


94+ Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate August 2016
96+ Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2016

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72% cabernet franc, 13% cabernet sauvignon, 9% merlot, 6% petit verdot

80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak

341 Cases Produced

"Perfumed nose of cedar, raspberry jam, dried herbs, dark chocolate and chickoree coffee. Dark fruit and dark chocolate on the palate that remains focused and pure. Terrific length with muscular tannins that slowly take over and lead to a smoky and dark finish. Structured for the cellar with small tannins that completely cover the front and back palate. This remarkable Alma should reward patience and drink beautifully for years to come." Matt Dees, Winemaker

96 Points The Wine Advocate
95 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous

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  • 78% cabernet franc, 15% cabernet sauvignon, 4% petit verdot, 3% merlot
  • 80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
  • 425 Cases Produced
  • "Heady and colorful nose of red fruit, black kalamata olive, fresh green herbs and clean, brown earth. It is an experience just smelling this blend. Seductive stuff. A wine of balance and intrigue. Dark bittersweet chocolate, dried leaves, sweet tobacco, black tea and Luxardo cherries. Stays fresh and refined across the palate and finishes with a note of minty coolness and firm yet fine tannin. Cooler climate cabernet franc at its complete and complex best." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 96 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • Not produced this vintage
  • 70% cabernet franc ,10% merlot , 20% cabernet sauvignon, 9% merlot, 1% petit verdot
  • 80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
  • 575 Cases Produced
  • "The resulting wine shows all of the classic perfumed Alma notes of lavender, cacao, black olive, scorched earth, graphite and dusty herbal nuances. However, the 2009 also displays the dense and incredibly powerful black fruit that cabernet franc is capable of producing in warmer vintages. The fruit jumps out behind the ethereal and complex initial aromatics and dominates on the full bodied and opulent mid palate. Although still very primary, this wine is also already very generous and deep, a youngster hinting at the greatness it will achieve with age. The stout tannins and backing acidity should supply ample support for years of evolution and cellar maturity to come—a heady and perfumed monster of a young wine, in the same footprint as the 2007. Chewy and complete." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 97 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 75% cabernet franc ,10% merlot , 10% cabernet sauvignon, 5% petit verdot
  • Aged in 80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
  • 425 Cases Produced
  • "More of an elegant ballerina than the heavy weight boxing 2007, the ethereal and perfumed nose shows pure cassis, blackberry, pencil shavings, lavender and an earthy dust-like note. Scorched earth and violets add an exotic hint to the swirling nose. On the palate the wine shows off a balance between vibrant bright red fruit and denser blackberry richness along with a wide array of earth, spice and herbal elements, all held aloft by the invigorating 2008 acidity. The 2008 Alma finishes with some of the finest grained tannins ever off the property; they seem to linger infinitely as the bramble-like black fruit continues to come in waves." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 95 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 95 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 95 Points James Suckling
  • 89% cabernet franc, 7% merlot, 3% cabernet sauvignon, 1% petit verdot
  • 80% New French oak, 20% neutral French oak
  • 500 Cases Produced
  • "At first glance the 2007 represents an intense combination of cabernet franc’s two distinct sides: Intense black fruit and dusty herbal nuances, an intermingling of scorched earth, black raspberry, lavender, graphite and pencil shavings. This is definitely the most expressive nose of any Alma to date, but still hiding a world of aromas to develop over time in bottle. On the palate, one finds precision and clarity, with flavors ranging through bittersweet chocolate, blackberries, earth and toasty oak wrapped in fine tannins and an extraordinarily elegant finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 97 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 90 Points Wine Spectator
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  • 95% cabernet franc, 4% cabernet sauvignon, 1% merlot
  • 80% New French oak, 20% neutral French oak
  • 426 Cases Produced
  • "Alluring aromas of cassis, pencil shavings, black raspberry, cedar and a touch of herbal undertones. Elegant and seductive. Perfume of violets and black fruit. Constantly evolving in the glass. A wine of balanced black fruit, generous mid palate weight and fine grained tannins. Asian spice and plum. Layers of fruit, flowers and herbs cascade in the mouth. Tough to refrain from popping cork and enjoying today, but time in bottle should provide even more complexity and refinement." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 95 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 93% cabernet franc, 5% merlot, 2% petit verdot
  • 85% new French oak, 15% neutral French oak
  • 423 Cases Produced
  • "Nose of fresh strawberries, ripe raspberries and savory nuances give way to elusive floral notes of lavender and violets. An earthy, dusty character also shines through in the aromatic spectrum. Flavors of tart cherry and minerals. Restrained, but still showing signs of a future lush and broad mouthfeel. Lively sangiovese acidity and mouth coating tannins round out the finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 95 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 84% cabernet franc, 9% cabernet sauvignon, 7% merlot
  • 66% new French oak, 33% neutral French oak
  • 88 Cases Produced
  • "The 2004 cabernet franc blend shows great balance between sweet black fruit and the herbal, Asian spice character so often found in this classic grape. Alongside cassis and black plum it displays characteristic notes of graphite, black olive and rose petal on the nose. In the mouth, this wine is very generous and rich, with flavors reminiscent of dark chocolate-covered raspberries. Its velvety texture flows into the finish with ultra-fine grained tannins that coat the mouth, but don’t overwhelm the elegance of the fruit. Very focused and pure wine." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 88 Points James Suckling
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La Sangre de Jonata
"The Blood" Syrah

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

98% Syrah and 2% Viognier
516 Cases Produced

"A wine that will continue to move at its own glacial pace of evolution for years to come. Only really shows it cards on day two with white truffle, ripe blackberry, white pepper and grilled bread. Reticent until it feels ready and then it is full steam ahead. It is akin to a seismic event of spice and fruit. Ripe and round. It seems to get darker with time in glass. A wine for the cellar for the next five years. Notes of blood orange. Tannin content is grand, but certainly supple. Texturally thrilling and structurally profound. Pure and classic Jonata syrah that should age gracefully and effortlessly." Matt Dees, Winemaker

96+ Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2018
99 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com October 2018
93-95 Points William Kelley The Wine Advocate April 2018

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97% Syrah, 3% Viognier

405 Cases Produced

"We’ve never seen a Sangre like the ’15. Tough to put in to words. Unmatched complexity with ripe blackberry, charred tri-tip and green peppercorn. Luxurious texture. Perfumed, exotic and supple. Creosote, tar, violets and truffle. Such is the power and density of this wine that the formidable tannins on the finish appear merely as soft, dusty and balanced. Everything on a higher level and nothing out of place. Similar only to the 2007 Sangre in which both wines were seamless and gorgeous from the moment the grapes were harvested to the moment we put them in bottle. Very special and rarified air." Matt Dees, Winemaker

95+ Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown The Wine Advocate September 2017
100 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

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99% Syrah and 1% Viognier
30% new French oak, and 70% neutral French oak
497 Cases Produced

"A polished and perfumed Sangre in the same family as our favorite vintages: 2006, 2008 and 2010. While it certainly doesn’t lack power, it wows with its silky fruit and seductive structure. Just open enough to enjoy today and endowed with the muscle to last a decade, this Sangre showcases the maturing syrah vines at Jonata. It seems to gain momentum with every new vintage. Certainly no shrinking violet…more of a rose about to bloom." Matt Dees, Winemaker

 

99 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com August 2017
94 Points Wine Advocate August 2017
93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous August 2017

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  • 98% syrah, 2% viognier
  • 30% new French oak, 70% neutral French oak
  • 542 Cases Produced

  • "Still tight and closed, which is a great sign for a young Sangre with such a long life ahead. Scents of black plum, black pepper and soy sauce. Savory notes combine with lifted black fruit. Shows its power on the attack with superbly sweet mulberry fruit. Dense and chewy like all of the 2013 reds. Tightly wound with ultra fine tannin wrapped around a savory core. Dried mushroom, clove and black truffle. Exceptionally well-endowed Sangre. A wild animal of a wine. Built in a similar mold to the epic 2005 and 2009 Sangre bottlings." Matt Dees, Winemaker

    96 Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate August 2016
    97 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2016
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  • 97% syrah, 3% viognier
  • 35% new French oak, 65% neutral French oak
  • 510 Cases Produced
     
  • "Gamier and darker than the Todos at this stage. Truly lives up to its name. The 2012 is an exotic sangre with ripe fruit, pronounced black pepper, tar and truffle. Perfumed and powerful and equally impressive on the palate. Floods the mouth with densely packed black fruit. So much kinetic energy. Seamless travel across the palate. Even with the remarkable aromatic profile and mind-boggling density, it is the finish that leaves the lasting impression. Perfectly layered tannins slowly subside leaving nothing but subtle fruit and perfectly balanced acidity. Combination of the tension and massive proportions of its 2007 predecessor and the delicate cool climate notes of the ethereal 2010." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 97 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 95 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 91% syrah, 6% grenache, 3% viognier
  • 35% new French oak, 65% neutral French oak
  • 510 Cases Produced
     
  • "Even at this early stage, it immediately jumps out of the glass aromatically. The descriptors could fill this entire page. It displays some similarity at this stage to its older sibling, the legendary 2008. This is the first Sangre to include significant amounts of passito-style dried and whole cluster fermented wines (20%) and also a dollop of grenache (6%). The resulting notes of dried herbs on the nose and the blast of ripe red fruit on the palate are a welcome addition to the simultaneously chaotic and focused mélange that is Sangre. After all this exotic talk of stem inclusion, drying fruit and grenache additions, it is remarkable to note that this is the most reserved and elegant of all of the Sangre blends to date. It is beyond perfumed on the nose, but remains tightly coiled on the palate. With time in glass it opens to showcase peeks of velvet and plush richness on the mid palate. The earthy side of syrah also plays a large role. It is soft and supple with remarkably fine tannins. This is a special Sangre." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 96 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 95 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 94% syrah and 4% viognier
  • 50% new French oak, 50% neutral French oak
  • 570 Cases Produced
  • "An explosively aromatic wine with jasmine, black pepper and hard blackberry candies. Though it is the most powerful of the Jonata reds in 2010, it also already strikes me as the most cohesive and complete at this stage. Unforgettable purity of fruit throughout and a remarkable weight on the palate. This wine boasts the most velvety midpalate of any Sangre to date. It flows across the palate with incredible energy and unmatched power. Seamless! The tannins build slowly at the start and form a formidable tower that will certainly reward cellaring. 2010 Sangre strikes me as a blend between the best aspects of the 2008 and 2009 Sangre in its combination of impenetrable black fruit, formidable extract and surprising brightness." Matt Dees, Winemaker 
  • 97 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 97 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 99% syrah, 1% viognier
  • 50% new French oak, and 50% neutral French oak
  • 900 Cases Produced
  • "With eight hours of decanting: Floral notes begin to appear, the density becomes more evident and the finish begins to show its seemingly endless flourish. At the beginning of day two, this wine has decided to speak in more depth. As it comes out of its shell, the 2009 reveals itself to be the most powerful and potentially age-worthy Sangre to date, as black fruit, black spice and meaty notes dominate the nose, the palate and the finish. By day three it’s in full glory—a shy and mysterious bruiser of a wine that promises years and years of development and beautiful drinking (as if you can wait three days to drain the bottle). The most “wow” I’ve sensed in a young La Sangre to date." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 94+ Points The Wine Advocate
  • 96-99 Points The Rhône Report
  • 94 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 94+ Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 92 Points Wine Spectator
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  • 98% syrah, 2% viognier
  • 50% new French oak,and 50% neutral French oak
  • 500 Cases Produced
  • "The 2008 syrah is a sensory ride that starts strong out of the gate and accelerates to dizzying heights. Based more in the red fruit end of the spectrum, this version of La Sangre also features the classic grilled steak, white pepper, cacao, iodine, tar and truffles that have defined our previous vintages. Furthermore, it’s vibrant and lively on the palate, with a constant tension between bright red fruit and the darker, deeper notes of spice and smoke. It charges to the finish with dusty syrah tannin and invigorating acidity. Both sleek and formidable, this is a surprisingly delicate La Sangre considering the palate weight." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 95 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 97 Points The Rhône Report
  • 94 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 96 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 98% syrah, 2% viognier
  • 50% new French oak,and 50% neutral French oak
  • 397 Cases Produced
  • "A seemingly endless array of powerful aromatics bloom out of this wine, with heady jasmine and violets followed closely by hints of smoked meat, blackberries, white pepper, licorice and rosemary. The Sangre is opulent and silky on the palate with waves of richness that literally cascade; within its incredible density it remains delineated and focused, never losing its purity or vibrancy—this is a Syrah that’s anchored by quiet, balanced acidity. The tannins are firm, but at the same time utterly fine grained, a reminder that though the wine is already complete, it still has years to grow into much more." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 98-100 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 97+ Points The Rhône Report
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 94 Points Wine Spectator
  • 93 Points James Suckling
  • 98% syrah, 2% viognier
  • 50% new French oak,and 50% neutral French oak
  • 762 Cases Produced
  • "Exotic nose that floats gracefully between powerful black cherry, soy-like gamey notes and perfumed and lifted floral incense. The intensity of the color and the complexity of the aromatic profile give a hint to the power within this brooding wine. Bouquet of black pepper, bacon fat and black truffles. Spice notes pick up on the palate amidst a wave of dense black raspberry and olive tapenade flavors. Subtle and sweet, yet persistent tannins bring a level of added intensity to this powerful, balanced and concentrated expression of Jonata syrah." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93-95 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points The Rhône Report
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 91 Points Wine Spectator
  • 98% syrah, 2% viognier
  • 50% new French oak,and 50% neutral French oak
  • 1499 Cases Produced
  • "Same brooding nature and impenetrable color as the 04, but with differences in the flavor profile. Displaying the characteristics of our clone 383. Grilled meats and licorice dominate the nose, with a sturdy layer of black fruits underlying. Black pepper, baking spice, soy sauce and truffles. Pure and focused nose. Massive density, depth and intensity. Mouth-filling, almost chewy, sweet blackberry. Dense and ultra-concentrated with mouthwatering acidity. A beauty and the beast-like monster of a wine, with surprising refinement on the finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 94 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 96 Points The Rhône Report
  • 94 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 89 Points Wine Spectator
  • 100% syrah
  • 50% new French oak,and 50% neutral French oak
  • 301 Cases Produced
  • "Blood-like color and brooding nose. Nearly impenetrable black hue. A broad spectrum of aromas swirl out of the glass from black licorice, violets and blackberries to tar and grilled meat characters. On the palate, this wine explodes with a massive serving of sweet black fruit, earthy nuances and pie crust nuances. The ample, but balanced acidity and gripping, yet forgiving tannins offer a hint of the long life ahead of this young, dark and powerful wine." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 94 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points The Rhône Report
  • 94 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
JonataTodosNV.jpg

Todos
"Everyone" Red Wine Vineyard Blend

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

50% Syrah, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petite Sirah, 8% Petit Verdot, 5% Sangiovese, 2% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Viognier, 1% Sauvignon Blanc, 1% Sémillon

2,426 Cases Produced

"The ultimate expression of Jonata in the glass; a rare example of the confluence of chaos and seamless unity. Syrah is the first to contribute to the aromas with mulberry, black truffle and a note of green peppercorns.  Cabernet shows up next with red fruit and cooling herbs. All the grapes show their true colors as the fruit moves across the palate. Black plum skin and violets. Fruit wrapped in velvet. Layered and mouthwatering tannins. Lovely notes of black pepper spice on finish that speaks to our cold nights on the property. As with the best Todos vintages, it is endowed with a push of fruit that goes on and on."  Matt Dees, Winemaker

 
92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2018
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com October 2018
 

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56% Syrah, 14% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot, 10% Sangiovese, 7% Petite Sirah, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Viognier

2042 Cases Produced

"Lovely balance between savory and sweet. Blackberry and black cherry, Mesquite and black truffle. Notes of violets, pepper and five spice powder. Floral, fruit-driven and effusively aromatic. Smoky, sweet and decadent with a massive core of black fruit. Dusty tannins start early and slowly encompass the entire palate. Earthy and complex, but ultimately round and generous with tannins that stretch the fruit to greater lengths. Tremendous grip. Absolutely beautiful today with some air. A decadent and towering Todos." Matt Dees, Winemaker  

93 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown The Wine Advocate September 2017
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

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Expansive and focused, savory and chewy. This blend represents the perfect lens through which to view the confluence of the Santa Barbara sun and the Jonata sandy soils. A perfect match.

2450 Cases Produced


“Lifted aromatic combination of fruit and spice; cabernet sauvignon meets syrah. Then viognier joins the mix. Exotic and true representation of the 11 varieties grown at the Jonata property. In a year of structure and seriousness, this wine brings the hedonism. Soft, plush and complex. Absolutely gorgeous. This wine delivers everything that we hope to see from Todos.”  Matt Dees, Winemaker 

93 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com August 2017
94+ Points Wine Advocate August 2017
91 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous August 2017

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Expansive and focused, savory and chewy. This blend represents the perfect lens through which to view the confluence of the Santa Barbara sun and the Jonata sandy soils. A perfect match.


40% new French oak, 60% neutral French oak
2436 Cases Produced


"More open and red in its profile than the dark and brooding Sangre. Constantly changing nose of strawberries, raspberry, pastis, sage, tobacco and grilled meat. Massive scoop of sweet red fruit/sweet cream on palate that quickly moves to savory cured meat notes. Remains fresh and charming and moves seamlessly to the chalky and coating tannins that emerge on the mineral-driven finish. Notes of Mexican chocolate. Tremendous life ahead." Matt Dees, Winemaker 


94 Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate August 2016
91 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2016

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  • 75% syrah, 7% merlot, 7% cabernet sauvignon, 4% sangiovese, 4% petit verdot 2% viognier,1% cabernet franc
  • 40% new French oak, 60% neutral French oak
  • 2,200 Cases Produced
  • "Defined by exuberant fruit, both red and black. Also shaped by familiar Jonata notes of smoked sausage, black pepper and black plum skin. Fruit sweetness and power also mixed with fennel and Indian spices. Plush fruit on the attack. Tremendous depth from the seemingly endless 2012 summer. Pure fruit throughout the attack and midpalate. Truly a pleasure to drink today. Perfectly balanced and evolved tannins. By no means a shrinking violet, but manages to retain exceptional overall balance. Syrah sexiness with cabernet sauvignon focus and structure." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 75% syrah, 13% cabernet sauvignon, 4% grenache, 4% sangiovese, 2% viognier, 1% petit verdot, 1% merlot
  • 50% new French oak, 50% neutral French oak
  • 1,500 Cases Produced
  • Fresh raspberries, candied strawberries, charred steak and a hint of jasmine from the viognier. Upfront and personal. A classic Todos with an extra layer of finesse and charm. So refreshing and approachable. The perfect wine for barbeques this winter and beyond. Displays the similar streak of finesse and refinement evident in all of the 2011 vintage. Juicy and savory on the palate. A big and generous wine with a delicate and deft touch on the finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 91 Points Wine & Spirits
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  • 78% syrah, 8% Sangiovese, 5% merlot, 3% cabernet sauvignon, 1% viognier, 1% grenache, 1% cabernet franc, 1% petit verdot, 1% sauvignon blanc, 1% Semillon
  • 50% new French oak, 50% neutral French oak
  • 2025 Cases Produced
  • "Knockout nose with charcoal, black plum, graphite and black olive. Lifted gamey syrah with a hint of cool climate spice. The beauty and bold voice of ripe and hedonistic syrah dominates the nose, but shares the stage with cabernet sauvignon on the palate. Suave black fruit intermingles with herbal notes and a dusty and earthy charm. Well-endowed with heaps of dry extract that arrives in layers. A wine that achieves a great level of tension; ripe and round fruit, framed by taut acidity and bold tannins. Leaves a mouthwatering cooling, minty sensation on the finish. With all ten grapes we grow at the ranch accounted for in the blend, Todos is a fantastic snap shot of what makes 2010 at Jonata so special." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 95 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 63% syrah, 12% sangiovese, 11% merlot, 6% cabernet sauvignon, 2% grenache, 2% viognier, 1% cabernet franc, 1% petit verdot, 1% sauvignon blanc, 1% sémillon
  • 60% new French oak, 40% neutral French oak
  • 1,545 Cases Produced
  • "As always, Todos is a complex wine dominated by black fruit and brooding spice, but lifted to higher levels by elegant white flowers and exotic charm. It contains our most fruit driven and hedonistic lots, but also carries a hefty dose of minerality and a flood of sweet, but persistent tannins. The 2009 strikes me as the darkest Todos we’ve produced to date, offering notes of wild blackberry, black truffle, grilled bread, blueberry syrup, black pepper, black olive tapenade, black licorice, mulberry, cinnamon, jasmine and steak au poivre. Its exuberant aromatics come spiraling out of the glass, wild and intoxicating—an aromatically thrilling wine. For all of the combating elements and varieties, the 2009 Todos is singular for its precision and unity. Black plum and black cherry dominate on the generous, full bodied mid-palate. The attack is pure fruit (the definition of black and blue fruit) and then moves to express the minerality of the vineyard and vintage. Seductive tannins slowly coat the palate and act to subtly conceal the sleek acid backbone. Truth is, as beautifully as this wine will age, Todos is a pleasure to drink today with a few hours of decanting." Matt Dees, Winemaker 

     
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points The Rhône Report
  • 91 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 88 Points Wine Spectator
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  • 65% syrah , 17% cabernet sauvignon , 5% merlot, 4% petit verdot 3% cabernet franc 3% sangiovese 3% viognier
  • 60% new French oak, 40% neutral French oak
  • 1,400 Cases Produced
  • "As the juiciest and currently most expressive of the 2008 reds, the Todos is an exuberant Personality, showing off an exotic nose of red fruit mingling with darker spices and subtle toasty notes of coffee and charcoal. As always, it’s brimming with heady and intoxicating aromas, an ever-changing display of its different vineyard constituents; herbal notes of Cabernet Sauvignon commingling with the sanguine notes of the petit verdot and syrah’s pure and voluptuous black fruit. The tannin profile is another mélange of the Jonata varieties, with our Bordeaux quartet of cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot leading the charge with fine grained, but persistent and earthy tannins." Matt Dees, Winemaker

     
  • 92 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 95 Points James Suckling
  • 94 Points The Rhône Report
  • 91 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 45% syrah ,35% cabernet sauvignon, 6% merlot, 5% cabernet franc,4% viognier, 3% sangiovese, 2% grenache
  • 60% new French oak, 40% neutral French oak
  • 2,476 Cases Produced
  • "Another chameleon in the glass, the Todos displays simultaneous notes of cassis from the cabernet sauvignon, sanguine elements from petit verdot, minty coolness from the cabernet franc and powerful savory and truffle-like notes from the monstrous 2007 syrah lots. A hint of honeysuckle from the viognier adds a floral beauty to the mix. At first sip it’s a voyage to the dark side, displaying inky, black fruit and dark chocolate. Then herbs and white pepper emerge, along with sweet and bright fresh berries. Layers of tannin continue to form and recede, creating a chewy, yet integrated finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker 
  • 92-94 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 95 Points The Rhône Report
  • 91 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • "A true chameleon of a wine exhibiting a vast array of constantly changing flavors and aromas. Displays the cassis, dust, herbal notes and mint of our estate cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Pronounced notes of truffle, smoked meats, black plum and crushed black pepper announce the presence of Syrah. Floral hints and honeysuckle from the viognier add to the tapestry of aromas. In the mouth the constant evolution and change continues with passing hints of the intense cassis and black olive of our Bordeaux varieties mingling with the velvet textured blackberry and spice of our syrah. The resulting mélange awakens your senses as the petit verdot dominated finish kicks in and leaves you with a long lasting finish of bright red fruits." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 95-97 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points The Rhône Report
  • 90 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 41% syrah, 30% cabernet sauvignon, 11% cabernet franc, 11% merlot, 5% petit verdot, 2% sauvignon blanc
  • 50% new French oak, 50% neutral French oak
  • 1,158 Cases Produced
  • "Wide mélange of flavors faithfully illustrates the kitchen sink of variety of grapes within the glass. Aromas of smoked meats, wild honey, soy sauce, white truffle, black cherry, cola, brown sugar and oak char. Dizzying yet tempting complexity. Generous and full bodied with mix of blackberry, mushroom notes and smoke. Very approachable at this stage with loads of soft fruit and firm, yet giving tannins. Length, length and length on finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 94 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94+ Points The Rhône Report
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 61% syrah, 16% cabernet sauvignon, 14% merlot, 3% sangiovese, 3% petit verdot, 3% sauvignon blanc
  • 60% New French Oak, 40% neutral
  • 504 Cases Produced
  • "Like the 2004 Syrah, this exotic blend is completely black in color. The extremely complex nose is forever changing in the glass. Each swirl reveals herbs de provenance, anise, fresh blueberry, dried chamomile and gamey, soy sauce notes. Black fruit dominates the huge body of this wine with jam-like concentration. An equally large combination of young, chalky tannins and firm acidity takes a hold of this wine, leaving a long lasting finish with hints of fresh berries and herbs." Matt Dees, Winemaker 
     
  • 91 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points The Rhône Report
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
JonataFenixNV.jpg

Fenix
"Phoenix" Merlot

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

58% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot

615 Cases Produced

"Blackberry, loam, elderberry, cacao, graphite and baking spice. Massive wine that somehow manages to remain delicately focused. Impenetrable and dense. Grounded by delicious and fine, chalky tannins. The joy here undoubtedly lies in the unctuous layers of black and red fruit that form a cascade in the middle of this wine. Early accumulation of fresh and delectable tannins that pushes with fruit through the long and graceful finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
 

95  Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2018
97+ Points  Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com October 2018
93-95 Points  William Kelley The Wine Advocate April 2018

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47% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot

537 Cases Produced

"Intense and brooding aromatics of dark chocolate, mint, blackberry and dried mushrooms. Dense and sweet black fruit on the attack and a classy velvet feel. Seamless texture with enticing notes of clove and fig. Savory and herbal notes from cabernet franc lift the blend. Black fruit is buffered by a wall of muscular, yet fine grained structure. A merlot-based wine of unabashed power, yet undeniable finesse." Matt Dees, Winemaker 

93+ Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown The Wine Advocate September 2017
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

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54% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot
75% new French oak, 25% neutral French oak
508 Cases Produced

"Crushed raspberry, fresh tobacco, peat and smoke lead the way on this serious expression of merlot. Pretty and inviting on the nose, then taut and structured with intense black plum and cedar on the palate. Expands and stretches with air to become both sweet and chewy. More plush and round today than its cabernet counterparts. Elegance and pleasure" Matt Dees, Winemaker 

 

92 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com August 2017
93+ Points Wine Advocate August 2017
93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous August 2017

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65% merlot, 30% cabernet franc, 5% petit verdot
75% new French oak, 25% neutral French oak
435 Cases Produced
Robust and sexy. A veritable black hole of sweet black fruit and structure. Layers and layers of powdered tannins. Rose petals and cinnamon. Red licorice and dried strawberry. Soft and pillow-like mid palate attack. Immense. Supremely rich. Huge push of herb-laced bold fruit with notes of cedar. Erupts with wonderful fruit push on the finish. Cacao tannins. Salted caramel and toasty oak. Lingers with nuance of dried blueberries and charred steak.
96 Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate August 2016
94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2016

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  • 69% merlot,  22% cabernet sauvignon, 6% cabernet franc, 3% petit verdot
  • 80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
  • 173 Cases Produced
  • A deft balancing act between luscious black fruit and herbal notes of black olive and fresh mint. The two sides of merlot. Currently the softest and most expansive on the palate with loads of blackberry leading the way. Velvet. Remarkably long finish that echoes the depth of fruit. Textured for immediate drinking pleasure, but structured to also reward a decade in the cellar. Such a pleasure to be able to offer this special wine after a long absence. It is obvious at this point that 2012 offered absolutely perfect conditions for this often finicky grape.
  • 95+ Points The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 70% merlot, 11% cabernet sauvignon, 11% petit verdot, 8% cabernet franc
  • 75% new French oak, 25% neutral French oak
  • 150 Cases Produced
  • Although the Fenix is still a “young’un” holding its cards close to its chest, as it unfolds, a cascade of cassis, black olive and earthy mushroom notes pour out of the glass--this is truly a wine for the decanter. Dig deeper and you find Merlot’s classic plum quality and mid-palate toasty notes, melding with that telltale velveteen texture as it spreads across the palate. Black and suave with fine grained tannins and great length.
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points James Suckling
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 88% merlot, 10% cabernet sauvignon, 1% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot
  • 75% New French Oak, 25% neutral oak
  • 227 Cases Produced
  • This is the first merlot-based wine off the property and a-true-to-variety offering it is, showing bittersweet chocolate chips, black raspberry and smoke. Both exotic and pure at the same time, I am reminded of homemade blueberry preserves and cobbler. Like all truly great merlot, it’s sumptuously textured on the entry, velvety fruit that expands and gains momentum in the mouth. The Fenix finishes with a splash of vibrant red berries and palate staining tannins that flex, but quickly release to let the fruit linger on the finish.
  • 92-94 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 86 Points Wine Spectator
JonataTierraNV.jpg

Tierra
"Earth/Soil" Sangiovese

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

71 Cases Produced

100% Sangiovese

"A rather serious and powerful Tierra and a sangiovese to be reckoned with. Heady black fruit matched with dried sage and rosemary. Classic Tierra notes of prosciutto and raspberries. Round and supple. Generous and highly polished wine that offers tremendous drinking pleasure even at this early stage. No doubt to be a winner in the cellar as well. Juicy and elegant with immense fruit and power." Matt Dees, Winemaker

91 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2018
92 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com October 2018
90-93 Points William Kelley The Wine Advocate April 2018

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100% Sangiovese

68 Cases Produced

"Purity of sangiovese flavors. Bright red fruit with notes of sage and cured meat. Black cherry, dried tobacco and mint. Tight and reserved, yet showing signs of a powerful core of raspberry fruit. Extremely fine tannins and an impressive backbone of acidity. A sincere and sophisticated sangiovese from our best plot of vines. Suave and full of kinetic energy."  Matt Dees, Winemaker

91 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown The Wine Advocate September 2017
93 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

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100% Sangiovese
25% new French oak, 75% neutral French oak
120 Cases Produced


"Fascinating combination of raspberry jam, dried tobacco and cocoa on the nose. Opens up to balsamic fig jam with olive tapenade and savory prosciutto aromas. Earth driven on the palate with fine dusty tannins. Graphite notes mingle with smoke on the perfectly rustic finish. A wine defined completely by place, not fruit weight nor sweetness. Truly from the earth. A direct link to the Jonata soils." Matt Dees, Winemaker


93 Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate August 2016
93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2016

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  • 100% sangiovese
  • 25% new French oak, 75% neutral French oak
  • 160 Cases Produced
  • "Full bodied and dramatically structured sangiovese. Displays bright raspberry, smokey plum and herbal notes of rosemary and sage on the nose. Plenty of complex and savory notes of prosciutto and fennel. It is still tight at this young stage and is obviously reserving some power for the future. On the palate it explodes with pomegranate-like brightness with notes of sweet cherry. A savory and sea-like brininess arrives as well. Like all the 2012 blends, it is endowed with a wall of solid, but forgiving tannins. This is really a monstrous sangiovese. A wine that offers the consumer a window directly into the sandy soils, native herbs and cooling sea breezes that define the Jonata vineyard." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 90 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 98% sangiovese, 2% syrah
  • 30% new French oak, 70% neutral French oak
  • 160 Cases Produced
  • "Dried cherries, pipe smoke and matchstick. Salty aromas of prosciutto. Earthy, saline, bright and dense. Comes by its name honestly. More packed with aromatic intensity, mouthwatering acidity and precision than any of its predecessors. There is richness and fruit on the palate, but I love the charge of acid and young short grained tannin that leads the way. This is real sangiovese. Perfumed, gamey, salty, acid driven and perfectly rustic. A pleasure to drink today with grilled meats. For the sangiovese purist in all of us." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 95% sangiovese, 5% syrah
  • 30% new French oak, 70% neutral French oak
  • 240 Cases Produced
  • "Classy and elegant. A Tierra that shows off the increasing maturity of the vines. Less overt toast from oak, more purity of fruit and perfume. More Tierra on every level. Mid weight with brambly, peppery, smoky and gamey notes. Bay leaf and sweet tobacco. Darker fruit than previous vintages. Sweet and savory. The wine shows the warmth of September in richness of black cherry fruit and increased density on mid-palate, while the cool summer weather promoted higher acidity and charmingly rustic and lingering tannins lend. These rugged yet mouthwatering tannins start early and grip the entire tongue. Though still very young and concealing a part of its fruit potential, this Tierra shows incredible length. A young sangiovese that strikes me as the most tightly coiled vintage to date with the most upside potential in the cellar." Matt Dees, Winemaker
     
  • 92 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 94% sangiovese, 6% syrah
  • 80% new French oak, 20% neutral French oak
  • 325 Cases Produced
  • "This is another classic example of the remarkable balance between sweet and savory in sangiovese. Pungent and alluring nose of salumi, red and black cherries, leather, black plums, anise, dark chocolate and a minty freshness. I could smell this wine and be mesmerized by its changes all day. Upon sitting in the glass, some of the classic gamey and mushroom characteristics arrive while floral notes and a hint of toasty oak join the mix. While already showing surprising power and depth, this wine responds best to long decanting and will no doubt sing with five+ years in the cellar. Tight, coiled and concentrated on the attack with a seemingly endless ride between red fruit, black fruit, those wild gamey notes and a Jonata saline quality. Young and vigorous tannins rise towards the end of the mid palate, but soon release to showcase the charm and elegance of the finish. A vin de garde Tierra." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 91 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 94% sangiovese, 6% syrah
  • 325 Cases Produced
  • "Unmistakable sangiovese earthiness with smoke, leather and cured meats, then pretty red fruit and black plum notes—a beautiful contrast between sweet and savory. On the palate, that red and black fruit is wrapped in a light layer of sangiovese tannin that adds a component of dust and earth. Young and surprisingly delicate (within all that intensity), this rustic beauty is one of our favorite reds with a wide range of cuisine." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 92 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points James Suckling
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 97% sangiovese, 3% syrah
  • 50% New French oak, 50 neutral
  • 360 Cases Produced
  • "This wine combines all the joys of sangiovese: earth, salami and leather come out with air behind the initial aromas of perfumed, fresh crushed raspberries and strawberries. The palate is bright, robust and rustic, showing incredible density for this often shy grape. What starts with fruit moves to savory as it rolls across the palate, exhibiting anise, earth, dried flowers and cured meats all held in check by mouth coating tannins." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 91 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 97% sangiovese, 3% syrah
  • 50% New French oak, 50% neutral French oak
  • 504 Cases Produced
  • "Classic Jonata sangiovese notes of strawberry, wild raspberry and clove. Lives up to its name with earthy nuances emerging as it sits in the glass. Hints of cured meat and fennel also join the complex aromatic profile. Very focused wine with exceptional length. Dried strawberry and leather. As always the finish is highlighted by a vibrant acid backbone and subtle, fine grained tannins that together hint at a long life ahead for this young wine." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 91 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 93% Sangiovese,7% cabernet sauvignon
  • 50% New French oak, 50% neutral French oak
  • "Nose of fresh strawberries, ripe raspberries and savory nuances give way to elusive floral notes of lavender and violets. An earthy, dusty character also shines through in the aromatic spectrum. Flavors of tart cherry and minerals. Restrained, but still showing signs of a future lush and broad mouthfeel. Lively sangiovese acidity and mouth coating tannins round out the finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker 
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 90 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 88 Points Wine Spectator
  • 100% sangiovese
  • 50% New French oak, 50% neutral
  • 24 cases
     
  • 93+ Points The Wine Advocate
  • 90 Points James Suckling
JonataFuerzaNV.jpg

Fuerza
"Strength" Petit Verdot

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

100% Petit Verdot

69 Cases Produced

"The ristretto of wines. A singular wine that is certainly not soon to be forgotten. Ominous and brooding nose. Bottomless black fruit with cinnamon and Asian five spice. Szechuan peppercorn. All the internal intensity of unsweetened black cherry juice. Formidable wall of tannins that plays well with the refreshingly bright acid. Certainly not a shrinking violet." Matt Dees, Winemaker


93 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com October 2018

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100% Petit Verdot

50 Cases Produced

"Have to taste this wine to believe it. Acts like a red wine reduction with its intensity and concentration. Tight on the attack. Aromatic black tea and sweet spice. Incense and inner-perfume. Reminiscent of steeped blackberry tea. Unforgettable sensation of generous black fruit with beautifully drying tannins. Finest and most formidable Fuerza to date." Matt Dees, Winemaker 

95 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

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100% Petit Verdot
75% new French oak, 25% neutral French oak
43 Cases Produced

“A very special house favorite; near and dear to the entire production team. Expressive and explosive. Spice, bold fruit and unrivaled energy all wrapped up in a perfectly balanced package. Surprised that a bottle can hold it. Juicy on the palate with black cherry, cracked black pepper and notes of pipe smoke. Perfumed perfection from 100% whole cluster petite verdot.” Matt Dees, Winemaker

 

93 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017
94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous August 2017

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  • 100% petit verdot
  • 75% New French oak, 25% neutral French oak
  • 22 Cases Produced
  • "Like the Fenix, it is such a sincere pleasure to taste this blend after a four-year hiatus; another long lost friend. Absolutely impenetrable color in the glass that hints at what is to come. Spiraling nose immediately jumps out of the glass with floral aromas and spicy black fruit. Notes of mint and very fine espresso. Hard to even name all of the aromatic nuances: charred tri tip, mesquite, blackberry, vanilla, Chinese five spice and green peppercorns. Pure candied blueberry on the palate. Hedonistic and surprisingly soft and generous even at this early stage. Pure fruit with very fine tannins and gorgeous echoes of peppercorn and espresso bean. I was absolutely floored by this wine." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 95+ Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
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  • 94% petit verdot, 4% cabernet sauvignon, 2% merlot
  • 65% New French oak, 35% neutral French oak
  • 150 Cases Produced
  • "Where this wine is concerned, there will be no sneaking up on anyone. As with its predecessors it proclaims in a loud voice that it has arrived, with a knockout nose of Jonata black raspberry jam, hazelnut, Asian spices, chicory coffee and Nutella. It carries a larger-than-life, dark and brooding nose that portends to the density waiting in the glass. Teeth staining black fruit with a hint of pepper on the palate, this petit verdot is almost chewy in its massive fruit weight. Hints of Santa Rosa plum and a walnut-like texture arrive on the finish. As with past vintages, the tannins in this 2008 initially growl like a tiger, but release their grip early allowing the purity of black fruit to shine through astonishing length." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 91 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 95 Points James Suckling
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 91 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 92% petit verdot, 6% cabernet sauvignon, 2% merlot
  • 65% New French oak, 35% neutral French oak
  • 160 Cases Produced
  • "The only fair way to describe the 2007 La Fuerza’s appearance is impenetrable and inky. Impossibly dark and brooding aromas of black fruit, crushed blackberries, espresso roast, Asian spices, tar, powerful sanguine notes and blueberry preserves. On the palate, the viscosity and weight of the fruit almost tips the balance, but is quickly drawn back in by the lively acidity of petit verdot. This is a linebacker of a wine; it can hit hard, but maintains high energy and surprising lightness. The formidable tannic attack that one expects from petit verdot never shows up in the 2007; instead, absurdly fine grained and small tannins become evident throughout the mouth, creating a texture that acts as a perfect bookend, allowing one to chew and ponder the beautiful and pure black fruit that lingers on and on." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 90-92+ Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92+ Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 100% Petit Verdot
  • 75% New French oak, 25% neutral French oak
  • 114 Cases Produced
  • "Impenetrable black color. A seeming abyss in the glass. Hedonistic nose of black fruit, cedar, espresso bean and sanguine notes. Sweet vanilla and baking spices combined with meaty and gamey nuances. Glass staining; velvety and rich in the mouth. Fresh blackberry. Subtle tannins sneak up until they gently envelope the entire palate, but somehow leave just enough room for the seemingly endless finish of vibrant black fruit to shine through." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 100% Petit Verdot
  • 75% New French oak, 25% neutral French oak
  • 100 Cases Produced
  • "Pure black color with barely discernable red around edges. Serious color is accompanied by brooding and dark nose highlighted by notes of pure bramble, fresh crushed blackberries. As it sits in the glass it evolves to savory notes of meat and mineral. In the mouth it is all encompassing, covering every inch with sheer power and depth. An almost oil-like viscosity carries the monstrous weight with elegance. The petit verdot tannins feign an attack on the whole mouth, but instead deliver firm and pleasurable grip. A wine to be put down and revisited with age and serious steak." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 91 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 90+ Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
JonataFlorNV.jpg

Flor
"Flower" Sauvignon Blanc

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Sémillon

275 Cases Produced

"Classic Flor lime pith qualities with more radiant citrus notes of grapefruit. Pure and focused. A vintage of balance and extravagant texture. Polished and well-proportioned. Lemon verbena, green melon, chamomile. Key lime and agave. Chalky essence on refreshing and vibrant finish. Saline and seamless. Formal and reserved Flor. Utterly elegant and complete." Matt Dees, Winemaker

92-94 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com October 2018

 

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88% Sauvignon Blanc, 12% Sémillon

255 Cases Produced

"Statuesque Flor from a near perfect sauvignon blanc vintage. Showing the vine maturity in its level of polish and precision. Certainly not lacking power. Crushed rock, agave, sea salt, lime and pineapple guava. Voluptuous and fresh. Saline and herbal. Green melon and grapefruit.  Sleek and silky. Endless finish led by the electricity of the acid." Matt Dees, Winemaker

92 Points William Kelley The Wine Advocate April 2018
92-94 Points Jeb Dunnuck Jebdunnuck.com August 2017

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80% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Sémillon
1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
229 Cases Produced

“Creamy and luxurious, but with a perfect wild streak of freshness and an exotic background. Classic Flor notes of lime, chamomile and ginger. Dense, but light on its feet. Displays the remarkable 2015 concentration from extremely low yields. An exceptionally elegant and powerful blend, even by our high Flor standards.” Matt Dees, Winemaker

92 Points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com August 2017
93+ Points Wine Advocate August 2017
89 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous August 2017

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90% sauvignon blanc, 10% sémillon
1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
275 Cases Produced


"A blend in perfect balance. Fresh and delicate, but also ripe and wild. Essence of white peach. Juicy with sage, citrus oil and mint. Lemon cucumber and dried apricot on the palate. Jasmine lift. Succulent and bright. Light tannins on finish, which give the impression of peach skin. Most complete Flor we’ve seen." Matt Dees, Winemaker

92 Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate August 2016
93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous September 2016

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  • 70% sauvignon blanc, 30% sémillion
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 250 Cases Produced
  • "Classic Flor aromas of chamomile tea, sweet orange candies and lemon custard. Candied grapefruit skins. This 2013 turns everything up a few notches. Massive on the attack. Goes to 11. Speaks to the sunshine and ripeness of the 2013 vintage. Loud and proud and like nothing else on earth. Such decadence and refinement. Should be full of freshness, tension and vibrancy in ten years. Perfect testament to the “Flor” block at Jonata. The perfect marriage of sand and sauvignon blanc." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 92 Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
Read More
  • 70% sauvignon blanc, 30% sémillion
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 250 Cases Produced
  • "Musky beeswax and lemon custard. Apricot brioche. Pink grapefruit. Waxy notes from the sémillion. An absolutely decadent vintage for Flor with ample fruit weight and richness. Shows the sunny personality of 2012 in its density and mid palate weight. It is also bright and full of saline notes. Oyster shell. A Flor for the ages. Same vein as 2007, 2009. Classic Jonata lime pith and candied grapefruit on the finish." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 92 Points Jeb Dunnuck The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
Read More
  • 67% sauvignon blanc, 33% sémillion
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 244 Cases Produced
  • "With every new vintage of Flor, I feel that we are reaching new heights of balance, charm, power, and subtlety. The vines gain an extra year of maturity and grow deeper roots and the wines seem to respond directly and gain a new level of depth of their own. The nose is pure Flor with pungent notes of orange zest, lemon blossom, sweet custard, and dried chamomile. sémillon adds an extra dimension of poignancy on the palate. The dance between the fat of sémillon and the zing of sauvignon blanc is fine tuned in this offering. Higher acidity than the previous offering (a la the brilliant and cool conditions of 2011) adds a level of precision to the long finish. My favorite Flor to date (no offense to Flor’s ‘05 through ‘10) and one I am anxious to revisit in five and then ten years." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 92 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 93 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 94 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
Read More
  • 69% sauvignon blanc, 29% sémillon, 2% viognier
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 340 Cases Produced
  • "This is our first vintage using sauvignon blanc clone 1 (9% of the blend); its telltale herbal and grassy notes comingle beautifully with the honey, lime zest, smoke and chamomile elements from the other varieties—all wrapped in a complex leesy note. With remarkable richness and density, our estate-driven white blend is defined by its exotic nose and dense, honeyed mid-palate. Orange marmalade, candied grapefruit and lemon curd form the attack on the palate, underscoring a juicy and full-bodied mouthfeel. This decadent white starts to lean towards an oil-like viscosity, but is kept taut, tantalizingly refreshing and clean by the bright and focused Jonata acidity. Our most dense and complete Flor to date, the 2010 is drinking pure and beautiful today, but I’d love to see it with 5+ more years in the cellar." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 94 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 88 Points Wine Spectator
Read More
  • 67% sauvignon blanc, 33% sémillon
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 290 Cases Produced
  • "Following in the Flor tradition, the 2009 offers up the aromatic profile of a delicate and floral white, but surprises with its vast fruit weight and immense density and intensity. Never before has this sensational tightrope act been more pronounced thanks to the combination of a warm September and the beautiful partnership that exists between the vibrant sauvignon blanc and the rich sémillon. The 2009 blend is unforgettable—during a recent tasting, we likened it to the dancing elephants in the movie, Fantasia, as it remains light on its feet even with its considerable weight." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 93 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 90 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 60% sauvignon blanc, 23% sémillon, 17% viognier
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 150 Cases Produced
  • "Dizzying aromatic lift of dried pineapple, honey, frangipani, lemon blossom, mandarin orange and beeswax. The weighty palate is bursting with citrus and mineral notes, which gain momentum through a finish of concentrated fruit combined with mouthwatering acidity—a rollercoaster ride in the mouth." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 92 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 91 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 92 Points Antonio Galloni Vinous
  • 80% sauvignon blanc, 20% sémillon
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 185 Cases Produced
  • "Pale straw color. Intense nose of citrus peel and lemon curd. Complex notes of wet stone and mineral. Tart grapefruit flavors emerge on the palate along with incredible depth and weight and an almost creamy texture. This leads to a mouthwatering and balanced finish highlighted by bright acidity and lingering notes of fresh pineapple." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 94 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 92 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 100% sauvignon blanc
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • "Pale straw color. Intense nose of citrus peel and lemon curd. Complex notes of wet stone and mineral. Tart grapefruit flavors emerge on the palate along with incredible depth and weight and an almost creamy texture. This leads to a mouthwatering and balanced finish highlighted by bright acidity and lingering notes of fresh pineapple." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 90 Points The Wine Advocate
  • 90 Points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
  • 100% sauvignon blanc
  • 1/3 new French oak, 1/3 neutral French oak, 1/3 stainless tank
  • 85 Cases Produced
  • "Pale straw color. Intense nose of citrus peel and lemon curd. Complex notes of wet stone and mineral. Tart grapefruit flavors emerge on the palate along with incredible depth and weight and an almost creamy texture. This leads to a mouthwatering and balanced finish highlighted by bright acidity and lingering notes of fresh pineapple." Matt Dees, Winemaker
  • 91 Points The Wine Advocate
JonataLaMiel.jpg

La Miel de Jonata
"The Honey" Dessert Wine

 

Tasting Notes & Accolades

  • 81% sémillon, 19% sauvignon blanc
  • 75% new French oak 225L barrels, 25% neutral French oak 225L barrels

    "Enticing notes of lemon custard and orange marmalade. Cointreau-like nose. Focused sweet flavors of nectarine and candied peaches. Bracing acidity balances out the sweetness and the caramelized flavors seem endless on the finish."  Matt Dees, Winemaker

Press

The Somm Journal June July 2018.jpg

The Somm Journal June july 2018

 

The Plant Kid.  Discovering the magic of Jonata’s sandy soils in Ballard Canyon.

 

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Prestige Hong Kong September 2015 Cover.jpg

Prestige Magazine Hong Kong - September 2015

 

Nurturing Nature
Matt Dees of cult California estate Jonata tells Gerrie Lim how he came of age as a soil scientist who enjoys the vagaries of winemaking.

 

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Robb Report Best of the Best June 2014.jpg

Robb Report - Best of The Best June 2014

 

Tucked among the hills of Santa Barbara County's Santa Ynez Valley is a 600 acre laboratory where fascinating oenological experiments are carried out by Matt Dees. An alumnus of the University of Vermont and a veteran of the very different growing conditions of New Zealand and Napa Valley, Dees now presides over the complex winemaking at Jonata.

 

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JonataArticle-WineSpectator-Cover.jpg

Wine Spectator - November 2013

 

On a warm afternoon in the spring of 2004, Matt Dees was doing something that no professor, no instructor, had taught him. As the winemaker for Jonata, in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, stood in a vineyard, he squinted a bit, and listened. He was attempting to hear how dry the leaves were.

 

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JonataArticle-Decanter-Cover

Decanter - November 2013

 

Individuality is the watchword in this still-emerging region, says Katie Kelly Bell. Visit soon for a taste of California’s frontier spirit when the critically acclaimed Jonata winery was exploring initial vineyard sites in Santa Barbara’s Santa Ynez Valley back in 2000, it invited select experts from across the globe to advise on everything from vineyard placement to density.

 

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JonataArticle-Independent-Cover.jpg (1)

Independent - October 2012

 

About a decade ago, a trio of wealthy men brought one of France’s most renowned wine experts to a sandy patch of land in the middle of the Santa Ynez Valley. With wine grapes on their mind, they asked the man which ones they should grow and where. After scouring the 600-acre property off of Ballard Canyon Road, Château Latour’s Frédéric Engerer located a scant five acres where grapes might work.

 

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Purchase

 

Contact Us

Jonata
P.O. Box 191
Buellton, CA 93427
P: 805.564.8581
F: 805.456.0292
E: winery@jonata.com
 
 

Trade Inquiries

Marketing, Press, Event Participation & Donation Inquiries:
Jessica Trujillo
P: 707.372.0195
E: jessica@jonata.com

Sales: Michael DiGiovanni
P: 805.233.4214
E: michael@jonata.com

 
 

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Stay up-to-date

For updates, images of the winery and more, be sure to add us.

 
 

Tastings

Appointment Only

A limited number of tastings are available on weekdays. To inquire regarding availability contact us at 805.564.8581

 

Mailing List

 

Contact Us

Jonata
P.O. Box 191
Buellton, CA 93427
P: 805.564.8581
F: 805.456.0292
E: winery@jonata.com
 
 

Trade Inquiries

Marketing, Press, Event Participation & Donation Inquiries:
Jessica Trujillo
P: 707.372.0195
E: jessica@jonata.com

Sales: Michael DiGiovanni
P: 805.233.4214
E: michael@jonata.com

 
 

Follow Us

Stay up-to-date

For updates, images of the winery and more, be sure to add us.

 
 

Tastings

Appointment Only

A limited number of tastings are available on weekdays. To inquire regarding availability contact us at 805.564.8581

 

Contact

 

Contact Us

Jonata
P.O. Box 191
Buellton, CA 93427
P: 805.564.8581
F: 805.456.0292
E: winery@jonata.com
 
 

Trade Inquiries

Marketing, Press, Event Participation & Donation Inquiries:
Jessica Trujillo
P: 707.372.0195
E: jessica@jonata.com

Sales: Michael DiGiovanni
P: 805.233.4214
E: michael@jonata.com

 
 

Follow Us

Stay up-to-date

For updates, images of the winery and more, be sure to add us.

 
 

Tastings

Appointment Only

A limited number of tastings are available on weekdays. To inquire regarding availability contact us at 805.564.8581