2021 Jonata 'El Alma de Jonata-The Soul' Cabernet Franc Ballard Canyon
A luxurious and suave Alma showing o the plush fruit and stunning complexity that cabernet franc is capable of. Aromas of black cherry, new leather, mint and cocoa nibs. Savory charm and the classic herbal edge of rosemary, violets and lavender. Black minerals. A seamless young Alma. Supple, suave and perfumed. Regal and elegant. Light dusting of cocoa powder tannins alongside resinous dark fruit and dark green herbs. Ultimately a wine of balance, polish and satin texture. Dense, but also very light on its feet and tremendously long. In the sweet spot today and for years to come. An absolutely unforgettable reminder that when mother nature fully cooperates, cabernet franc is capable of miracles.
That low rumbling sound you hear is Jonata’s (hoe-na-ta) rocket engines warming up for takeoff. Established as a cousin winery to Napa’s acclaimed Screaming Eagle, their first commercial vintage in 2004 caused a stir among mailing list cognoscenti. Then the momentum began to build in the trade. And then Robert Parker called them “one of California’s most exciting new wineries” in a review, and the floodgates blasted open with collectors and connoisseurs scrambling to find their wares. Folks, we’re thrilled to tell you where you can get them! As Robert Parker has remarked, “What they are accomplishing with Bordeaux varietals is mind-boggling.” We can’t really make it any easier for you…
Jeb Dunnuck
One of my favorite cuvées from this estate, the 2021 El Alma De Jonata checks in as 80% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Reminding me of a great vintage of Château Figeac, it has a gorgeous perfume of red and black fruits, spring flowers, lead pencil, and smoked tobacco. With medium to full body, gorgeously polished, integrated tannins, and an incredible finish, it already offers pleasure yet will ideally be hidden in the cellar for 4-5 years. It will have 20-25+ years of overall longevity.
Vinous
The 2021 Al Alma de Jonata is dense and powerful, but also very young. There is some youthful austerity that needs time to soften, and yet all the elements are so well balanced. Dark red/purplish fruit, blood orange, cedar, mint and spice allr ace throughout this sumptuous, super-expressive Cabernet Franc- based blend. Franc aromatics are especially prominent on the finish. Give this time.