2013 Jonata La Tierra de Jonata

The 2013 Tierra, Jonata's Sangiovese-based red, is all class. Bright, focused and beautifully articulated, the 2013 offers fresh, vibrant red fruits and sweet aromatics, all accented by a kick of Sangiovese acidity. Although not especially varietal, the 2013 Tierra is about as good as it gets for Sangiovese in the US. A dollop of Syrah rounds out the blend.

98% Sangiovese, 2% Syrah. Dusty floral and red fruit aromatics with a dark palate accented by a red fruit lift. This is a deceptive, intriguing wine – it smells like red fruit then drinks full of dark notes; it has persistent tannins that are not aggressive and in fact quite fine; there is tons of concentration and still a sense of purity; it is rustic yet with elegance. Offers notes of gunmetal and cherry pit, but pulls back before it gets sweet. Accents of gunmetal and the sage-resinous notes classic to Ballard Canyon. This is a harmonious example of a substantial wine that needs a fatty meat accompaniment and the desire to drink it slowly. Give it time in bottle or air upon opening. (ECB)