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Tasting notes
A blend of 58% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot aged in 70% new French oak, the 2016 Fenix has a deep ruby color and nose of warm red and black cherry, chocolate, dried green herbs, cedar, graphite, blackberry pie, plum and dried flowers—dense but classic. Medium to full-bodied, it floods the mouth with luscious dark fruits, firmly framed by grainy tannins and great freshness, finishing long and chocolaty. Delicious! 625 cases will be released in the fall.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Incorporating a big chunk of Cabernet Sauvignon (30%), the Merlot-dominated 2016 Fenix offers a saturated purple color as well as a powerful, full-bodied, decadent style in its blackcurrants, black cherries, chocolate, lead pencil, and leafy herb aromas and flavors. With a stacked mid-palate, thrilling purity, and an expansive, layered, heavenly profile, it's one of the finest Merlots coming out of California. It will flirt with perfection at maturity.
Jonata's Merlot-based 2016 Fenix is bright, focused and taut, all qualities that lend energy to a core of raspberry jam, chocolate, spice and floral notes. Somewhat shy today, the 2016 needs a few years in bottle to blossom. I especially like the wine's energy and restrained yet powerful style.
The 2016 Fenix is a decidedly voluptuous wine, with much of that raciness coming from the late-picked Merlot that is the core of this blend. Creme de cassis, lavender, mint, chocolate and dark spice are all fused together nicely in this young wine. Even with all of its juiciness, the 2016 also retains a good bit of freshness before a closing of dense, primary fruit has the last word.
About the producer
Jonata is amongst a handful of truly exciting wineries from Santa Ynez Valley near Santa Barbara – a unique fine wine region of incredible versatility.