Domaine Jonata – Haute couture viticole sous le soleil californien

The Domaine Jonata is located in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, in the wine region of Santa Barbara, Southern California. In a warm climate tempered by ocean breezes, this estate produces intensely red wines of surprising refinement, resulting from ultra-precise work in the vineyard and cellar. It has quickly established itself as one of the most ambitious and high-quality estates in California.

The project was launched with the idea of pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with Bordeaux grape varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot) and Rhone varieties (Syrah, Grenache) on sandy, poor, and demanding soils, in a context of structural drought. Rather than circumventing the constraints, the team chose to integrate them into the core philosophy of the estate.

At the head of the vineyard, Matt Dees, a passionate and highly technical winemaker, embodies this vision of excellence. His approach is based on precision agriculture, with high-density planting, meticulous canopy management, zero surface irrigation, and parcel-by-parcel harvesting according to maturity. Every decision, from soil work to harvest date, is dictated by careful observation of the living environment.

The winemaking is done in an artisanal spirit: fermentations in small vats, manual punch-downs, long aging in French oak barrels, sometimes new, with a fine balance to not overpower the wine. No fining or filtration disturbs the pure expression of the terroir.

The reds of Domaine Jonata are known for their density, velvety texture, and complexity. They feature deep aromas of blackberry, dried herbs, graphite, black pepper, or cocoa, depending on the grape varieties. Despite their intensity, the wines remain balanced by natural freshness and discreet but present minerality, demonstrating total mastery of ripeness.

Iconic Cuvées:

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  "El Alma" – Pure Cabernet Franc, vibrant, minty, very straight.

  
  
  
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  "El Desafio" – Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, imposing structure, powerful tannins, great aging potential.

  
  
  
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  "La Sangre" – Intense and spicy Syrah, silky and wild at the same time.

  
  
  
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  "Todos" – Free blend, concentrated, energetic, great Californian expression.

  
  
  
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  "Flor" – Rare white from the estate, subtle, floral, mineral, and saline.