Steele Catfish Zinfandel 2009

Vineyards

The vineyard is located on the Bell Hill bench of Lake County just south of Kelseyville.  Catfish Vineyard, planted in 1901, is head pruned and stands on its own roots.  Steele Wines purchased the vineyard in 2000 and we have been working to rehabilitate the old vines since that time.  We have pruned the vines back so that each vine has fewer shoots and therefore fewer grape bunches and we have planted new vines where the 100-year-old vines have expired. Catfish Vineyard Zinfandel, is actually a field blend of a number of varieties, including small amounts of Carignan, Alicante Bouche, Cabernet, Petite Syrah, Touriga National and even some white grapes.  Having more than one variety assured the old-time vintners that they would have some grapes to harvest regardless of the spring frosts or autumn storms.  Additionally, there were no certified grapevine nurseries.

Winemaking

Following hand picking and crushing, we utilize a warm-to-moderate temperature fermentation on the Steele Catfish Vineyard Zinfandel this is followed by 12 months in hybrid barrels.  The hybrid barrels are unique in that they have alternating staves of French and American oak, which balance the unique flavors of this zinfandel.

Tasting Notes

Because of the well-drained volcanic soil and wide variety of grapes in the field blend, Catfish does not frequently exhibit typical warm-climate old-vine Zinfandel characteristics.  It tends toward a more bramble berry palate.  The wine has medium tannins that will allow it to age for a number of years or be consumed now.  The wine provides a mouth full of bright red fruit, and many layers of jam, coffee, and eucalyptus along with good structure and balance. 

Food Pairing

Enjoy this wine with Cioppino, pasta or red meat in a cream-based sauce, grilled venison, spice-rubbed leg or rack of lamb, pizza with pesto and sausage, or simply all by itself with a fire crackling on the hearth.

Awards     

Silver medal, People’s Choice Awards Lake County 2006Vintage. Bronze medal, Pittsburg Chamber of