The Syrah-dominated cuvee (98% Syrah and 2% Viognier), the 2008 La Sangre de Jonata is dark ruby/purple-tinged, solidly made, with more noticeable, tart acids, and medium body, but then, despite some attractive perfume and a fine attack, it seems to narrow out in the mid-palate and has some astringency and unusual austerity in the finish. This wine certainly has the potential to be excellent, but after the virtually perfect 2007, this wine is significantly less impressive. (Not yet released)Since Jonata’s debut releases a few years ago, this has been one of the most impressive newcomers in the Santa Barbara region. Their 2006s and 2007s were extraordinary wines, as Jonata set a new qualitative benchmark for what can be produced from Bordeaux varietals, Sauvignon Blanc, and Sangiovese as well as Cabernet Franc-based wines. After tasting through barrel samples of the 2008s, a noticeable downturn in quality is apparent. Certainly the 2008 vintage had its challenges, but I was surprised by how these wines were performing. However, they are all still in barrel, and are perhaps going through an unflattering stage of development.Tel. (805) 564-8581