97pts Jeb Dunnuck
The Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated cuvée from this incredible estate is the 2020 El Desafio De Jonata, and it's stunningly good, with pure crème de cassis, graphite, tobacco, and chalky mineral-like aromas and flavors that develop beautifully with time in the glass. Rich, full-bodied, and powerful, it stays tight and compact on the palate, with ripe tannins, a good sense of freshness, and a great finish. It needs to be forgotten for 3-4 years and will evolve for over two decades.
96pts Decanter
A stunning Cabernet Sauvignon (with 10% Merlot) from Jonata shows the world-class potential of Ballard Canyon for Bordeaux varieties. Savoury herbaceousness and a rich beautiful florality come to the fore of this elegant expression. Aromas of green peppercorn, sweet tobacco leaf, Savoury chicory root, sasparilla and wild anise make room for sweet red berries, rich plums and black liquorice. Texture, spice and finish are all gloriously knit together.
95pts Vinous
Cabernet Sauvignon takes center stage in the 2020 El Desafio de Jonata. Wild and exotic, with tons of varietal character, the Desafio saturates the palate with layers of inky dark fruit, pomegranate, grilled herbs, lavender and spice. Even though it was bottled just six weeks before this tasting, the 202 is seriously impressive and quite possibly, utterly profound too. I can't wait to taste it in another year or two.
