2011 Jonata La Tierra de Jonata

The 2011 Tierra is a big, explosive wine. Dark red cherry, plum and spice notes meld together in a decidedly rich wine that is the result of a very poor set that in turn lowered yields dramatically. Hints of tobacco, cedar and menthol add nuance on the close. In 2011 Tierra is 98% Sangiovese and 2% Syrah.

Even more lively and aromatic, the 2011 Tierra de Jonata is a beauty. Blackberry, currants, dark chocolate and big dusty earth-like qualities all emerge from the glass, and while still youthful and structured, it’s awesomely textured and pure on the palate. While this cuvee can age gracefully for upwards of two decades, I’m not sure it actually improves, so there’s no harm in drinking in its youth. Drink now-2026. This was an incredible tasting with winemaker Matt Dees. This estate continues to produce some of the most impressive, long-lived wines in Santa Barbara. As I’ve learned from past tasting, it’s always best to schedule this appointment at the end of the day as these effort have no shortage of tannin and can wreak havoc on one’s palate. While I’ve routinely tasted the La Sangre de Jonata for a number of years now, it was great to be able to go back through past vintages of this estate’s other wines. In addition to these efforts bottled under the Jonata label, I was also able to taste their The Hilt and The Pairing releases, both of which are also reviewed in this report (and highly recommended). Tel. (805) 564-8581; www.jonata.com

Freshly cut flowers, licorice, tobacco and plums are all supported by bracing beams of minerality in the 2011 Tierra. Impressively delineated and vibrant, the 2011 stands out for its precision and balance. All the elements are simply in the right place. This is a jewel of a wine from Jonata. The 2011 is 98% Sangiovese and 2% Syrah aged in medium-sized French oak barrels, 30% new.