(94-97 points) The 2010 Jonata Winery La Sangre de Jonata, tasted out of barrel, should be a beauty! A bend of 97% Syrah and 3% co-fermented Viognier, it exhibits textbook Jonata aromatics of incredibly dense fruit, ground pepper, charcoal, and searing minerality that give way to a full-bodied, gorgeously pure, and structured 2010 that has integrated acidity, perfect balance, and a seamless, structured finish. Turning more floral and elegant in the glass, this is nevertheless a serious Syrah that will require bottle age to really shine.

Looking at Matt’s Syrah blend, the La Sangre de Jonata is normally co-fermented with a small amount of Viognier and is aged all in larger format barrels. Showing just as good from bottle as from barrel, the 2010 La Sangre de Jonata is a brilliant Syrah. Co-fermented with 3% Viognier, its inky purple color is followed by a massive, concentrated and structured wine that tastes like the essence of Syrah. Cassis, spice, ink, chocolate, flowers and roasted meat-like aromas and flavors all emerge from the glass and this is formidably structured and tannic on the palate. In need of another 3-4 years of bottle age, it will have 15-20 years of longevity. Drink 2016-2025.