Mesmerizing aromas. Creosote and violet candies. Perfumed and inviting. Supple and hydrated. Full of vitality. As concentrated and intense as any Sangre to date. Oozes black fruit and black spice. Cracked pepper, blackberry, jasmine and smoked meat. Black truffle and blood orange. Kalamata olive and dried Mission fig. Striking in its unbridled expression of both massive dark fruit and complex layers of savory elements. Minty and lifted on finish. Remains so light on its feet. You can already sense that this is something very special. The focus on utilizing primarily own-rooted vines for this blend has resulted in an elevated level of seamlessness and expressiveness. This wine absolutely speaks clearly, loudly and purely. An unforgettable Sangre.
- Matt Dees, Winemaker
2023 La Sangre de JONATA Syrah "The Blood"
Varietal:
94% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah, 2% Viognier
Vineyard:
JONATA Estate, Ballard Canyon, Santa Ynez Valley
Ageing:
20 months in 35% new French oak, 65% neutral French oak
Alcohol:
14.1%
Case Production:
473
97 Points
The 2023 La Sangre de Jonata is the highlight in a range of super-impressive wines from Matt Dees. It's a commanding, jet-black Syrah that overflows with complexity and intrigue. A wine of real gravitas, the 2023 layers mineral energy, black fruit, tobacco savoriness and white pepper lift atop a sumptuous, sexy frame. The increased percentage of older-vine fruit (planted in 2000) in this year's blend brings an extra measure of depth to the table. This is absolutely gorgeous now, but patient readers will enjoy a long, thrilling road ahead.
Billy Norris, Vinous, August 2025
98 Points
A blend of 94% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah, and 2% Viognier aged 20 months in 35% new oak, the 2023 La Sangre De Jonata is slightly deeper-hued with a more Cornas-like vibe in its red, blue, and black fruits, crushed stone, pepper, violets, and orange blossom-like aromas and flavors. It's medium to full-bodied, has a pure, layered, vibrant mouthfeel, plenty of tannins, and outstanding length. This is up with the finest vintages of this cuvée to date and a wine that will easily keep for two decades in cold cellars. Drink 2025-2045.
Jeb Dunnuck, Jebdunnuck.com, September 2025
97 Points
This is the first release of this wine made entirely from own-rooted Syrah grown in pure beach sand. The complexity here is almost beyond comprehension—but you don’t need to understand it. You just need to drink it. The nose is bright and effusive, with black cherry and blackberry fruit, violet, honeysuckle, and jasmine. Bold, glorious tannins build across the full-bodied palate, delivering incredible density. It’s long, layered, and deeply expressive.
Jonathan Cristaldi, Cristaldi & Co., May 2025
