Jonata – Santa Ynez Valley

High-precision winemaking in California: density, finesse and energy under the Santa Barbara sun

The Estate

Located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley within Santa Barbara County, Jonata has swiftly become one of the most ambitious and sought-after estates in the world of premium Californian wine. Influenced by the warm climate and the cooling Pacific Ocean breezes, Jonata produces intensely structured red wines known for their remarkable refinement, purity and depth. Its sandy, low-vigor soils give rise to wines that combine power with precision.

Terroir & Varieties

Jonata was founded on a bold proposition: exploring the full potential of Bordeaux varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc) and Rhône varieties (Syrah, Grenache) on extremely sandy, nutrient-poor and fast-draining soils, in a region defined by structural drought. Rather than avoiding these constraints, the estate embraces them, making them central to its viticultural philosophy. High-density plantings and naturally low yields shape wines of striking concentration and a subtle, underlying mineral profile.

Viticulture & Philosophy

Under the leadership of winemaker Matt Dees, Jonata has become a benchmark of precision agriculture. Each parcel is monitored and interpreted individually, with meticulous canopy management, thoughtful soil care and minimal surface irrigation whenever possible. Harvest is performed parcel by parcel at the exact moment of optimal ripeness—an approach that preserves balance and amplifies the structural elegance of each wine.

Winemaking & Ageing

In the cellar, Jonata follows a resolutely artisanal philosophy. Fermentations are carried out in small tanks, with manual punch-downs and gentle extraction. Wines undergo extended ageing in French oak barrels, with a carefully tailored proportion of new oak depending on the cuvée. No fining or filtration is used, preserving the purity and integrity of the fruit. The result is a collection of wines that combine density, silkiness and natural freshness.

Wine Style

Jonata’s red wines are recognised for their remarkable depth and textural finesse. Aromatic signatures often include blackberry, cassis, graphite, dried herbs, cacao and black pepper. The palate offers imposing structure with finely grained tannins and a driving, energetic finish. These are wines built for long ageing, yet charming even in their youth when properly decanted.

Signature Wines

El Alma – A pure Cabernet Franc expression: vibrant, mint-tinged and beautifully vertical.

El Desafío – Cabernet Sauvignon–driven, with a powerful frame, deep tannins and exceptional ageing capacity.

La Sangre – Profound, spicy Syrah with black fruit, smoked meat and pepper notes; wild yet exquisitely silky.

Todos – A free-form blend, concentrated, energetic and deeply expressive of contemporary Californian style.

Flor – Jonata’s rare white wine: floral, mineral, crystalline and subtly saline.