Last week was my first chance to taste the new releases from Jonata during a comprehensive expedition into the Santa Ynez Valley. I had the 2005 Pinot Noir La Poesia de Jonata with dinner at the rancho and it is the first to get a complete note written on it. Winemaker Matt Dees has exciting fruit to work with from the rolling hills of Santa Barbara.
2005 Jonata Pinot Noir La Poesia de Jonata Sta. Rita Hills VF 92
Shows a rich polished nose of plum, black cherry and raspberry touched with a spray of anise. The palate is bright, round cherry and spice with smoothly sculpted acidity. Shows nice texture without astringency. The finish is pomegrtanate and graphite kissed with soft hints of cherry.
Overall, I visited with 11 winemakers and tasted 14 brands in three days. Keep an eye on free run juice for more reports from the field.
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