Matt Dees, Winemaker
Following his graduation from the University of Vermont with a degree in plant and soil science, Matt Dees moved to the Napa Valley and began working with Andy Erickson at the Staglin Family Vineyard, learning the nuances of Bordeaux varieties. During his three year stint at Staglin Dees also spent three consecutive vintages working under Doug Wisor at Craggy Range in New Zealand, adding high quality syrah and pinot noir production to his background. Dees learned the importance of expressing the flavors of the vineyard while working with some of the finest cabernet sauvignon, syrah and pinot noir grapes in both hemispheres. Based on his hands-on experience and his education in plant and soil science, Matt strongly believes that the world's greatest wines are made in the vineyard. Dees joined Jonata in 2004 with a broad, yet balanced winemaking background, and an intense passion for the quality of the fruit on this property.2004 El Alma de Jonata - Cabernet Franc
The 2004 cabernet franc blend shows great balance between sweet black fruit and the herbal, Asian spice character so often found in this classic grape. Alongside cassis and black plum it displays characteristic notes of graphite, black olive and rose petal on the nose. In the mouth, this wine is very generous and rich, with flavors reminiscent of dark chocolate-covered raspberries. Its velvety texture flows into the finish with ultra fine grained tannins that coat the mouth, but don’t overwhelm the elegance of the fruit. Very focused and pure wine.

Cases produced: 88
2004 El Desafio de Jonata - Cabernet Sauvignon
This wine displays the classic character of this noble grape with piercing aromas of pure cassis, cedar and dusty herbal notes dominating the nose. The texture of this wine is velvety smooth and full bodied. In the mouth it is intense and complex, shifting between the black fruit, dark chocolate and tobacco flavors. A strong acid backbone and soft fine grained tannins come together to form an elegant finish.
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DATA COPIED FROM NATALIEMACLEAN.COM

Winemaker: Matt Dees Update winery information Submit new wines to be posted