We've been a longtime fan of this juicy, palate-coating Red. It’s a blend of just about every varietal in their vineyard. Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot with a little Petite Sirah, Merlot, and a few ‘miscellaneous others’ as they like to say. Together, “it’s inky, glass-staining purple color is followed by a beautiful bouquet of smoked black fruits, bouquet garni, peppered meat, and hints of crushed rock. It's rich, medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and just a gorgeous wine.” 

Jonata, the Santa Barbara County winery, stands out for its experimental approach, setting it apart from its sister winery, Screaming Eagle, which focuses solely on Bordeaux varietals. Under the ownership of Stan Kroenke and the guidance of winemaker Matt Dees, Jonata has become a haven for unique grape varieties that are rarely seen in Napa Valley. With careful consideration and expertise, Matt has planted over 11 different grape varieties on the vast 84-acre vineyard, nestled in Ballard Canyon, an AVA within Santa Ynez Valley AVA. While the Bordeaux varietals shine, other grapes such as Syrah, Sangiovese, and even Greece’s Assyrtiko, and Xinomavro also thrive here. By producing wines of the highest quality, Matt is elevating this once-sleepy canyon to new heights.