The ParingRed 2021

The Paring is one of the ultimate value plays in California, crafted by the same star-studded winemaking and vineyard team behind the iconic Santa Barbara estate Jonata and its sister property, The Hilt. Helmed by winemaker Matt Dees, this project utilizes fruit from select blocks that are either younger vines or don't quite fit the specific profile of Jonata's ultra-premium releases. The result is an incredibly pedigreed Bordeaux blend that punches far above its price point. Composed of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon along with equal parts Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, the 2021 vintage is a fabulous success, benefiting from a superb California growing season. The wine opens with an inviting, layered bouquet of ripe black currants, wild blackberries, and savory herbs, underscored by darker notes of roasted espresso and licorice. On the palate, it delivers a wonderful play between sweet and savory characters, framing its rich core of black plum and juicy red fruit with gentle, dusty tannins. Driven by an underpinning of acidity that lends tension and freshness, it glides into a long, precise finish. This is a highly versatile red blend that drinks like a bottle three times the price, making it an ideal everyday luxury or a crowd-pleasing option for the dinner table.