2015 El Alma de Jonata

Composed of 74% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot, the 2015 El Alma de Jonata gives a deep garnet-purple color and vibrantly scented nose of red currants, black cherries and rose hip tea with hints of tobacco, pencil shavings and underbrush. Medium to full-bodied, the rich, decadent fruit is nicely framed by firm, grainy tannins plus plenty of freshness, finishing long and perfumed.

Showing awesome aromatics, as well as an incredible depth on the palate, the 2015 El Alma de Jonata (74% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot) reveals an inky purple color as well as killer notes of blackcurrant, spring flowers, dark chocolate, bay leaf and licorice. Possessing full-bodied richness, gorgeous purity of fruit, lots of chalky tannin, and a great finish, this is easily a candidate for the finest Cabernet Franc made in America. It needs 4-5 years of cellaring and will keep for two decades. It’s always a fun tasting with winemaker Matt Dees and his team, and they continue to keep this estate at the top of the hierarchy in Santa Barbara County. Located in Ballard Canyon AVA, they pull only from their estate vineyard (planted on incredibly sandy soils) and make a wide range of cuvées, from a red and white Bordeaux blends, to a 100% Petit Verdot, Sangiovese and a number of terrific Rhône blends. The common thread is incredible quality.