The 2020 Jonata Fenix Red hails from the Jonata Estate in Ballard Canyon, where extremely sandy soils and low-yield farming shape wines of precision and depth. Only a portion of the estate is planted, allowing for careful site selection and sustainable, long-term viticultural practices. Crafted by longtime winemaker Matt Dees with vineyard manager Rubén Solórzano, Fenix balances a sense of place with polish. The wine is full-bodied yet refined, offering a core of dark fruit layered with subtle savory and mineral notes, framed by fine tannins and a long, elegant finish that underscores Jonata’s reputation for producing world-class, terroir-driven blends.

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.