Steele Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard 2010

Vineyard

The Sangiacomo family farms the southern part of Sonoma County in the area known as Carneros. For many years this was just grazing land, thought to be too cold for the production of fine quality wine grapes. To look at the land one would agree that grapes should not do well here: the heavy adobe clay soil and the lack of sun seemed to contradict the accepted viticultural wisdom. However, for varieties which do best in cooler conditions, especially Pinot Noir, this is the place. Since there are many different vineyard blocks we keep each separate during fermentation and aging. For the single vineyard wines we use a blend of the “Pommard” and the “Martini” clone fruit from the “El Novillero” block, of Sangiacomo vineyards.

Winemaking

We have worked with the Pinot Noir from Sangiacomo since our first vintage in 1991. Each year we choose the best lots and produce a single vineyard bottling in exceptional years. We age these lots for an additional 4-5 months and use a higher proportion of new French oak barrels. These barrels are heavily toasted during the bending of the staves. This toasting gives a smoky aromatic backdrop to the wonderful cherry fruit aromas and flavors.

Tasting Notes

This is a beautiful, and consistent expression of Pinot Noir: medium color and the pronounced aroma of Bing cherries, combined with a smooth structure and perfect balance. Of the many Pinot Noir’s we make this is the lightest and brightest with an unmatched elegance, and lingering finish.

Food pairing

Grilled salmon is a great pairing for this wine, but as always pairing this wine with good friends is a great idea.  

Awards

87pts. Affairs of the Vine, Pinot Shootout, 2007 vintage.