Matt Dees

Matt Dees, the innovative winemaker at JONATA, The Hilt, and The Pairing in California, shares his fascinating journey from plant science studies to the vineyards. He reminisces about his transformative encounters, particularly a memorable bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon that directed his path to California. Dees dives deep into the intricacies of wine blending, emphasizing mid-palate structure over aromatics. He also highlights the unique diurnal shifts in Ballard Canyon and how these elements influence the character of his wines in the evolving Santa Barbara region.