2008 Steele Pinot Noir Carneros

Vineyard

We source our Carneros Pinot Noir from the Durell and Sangiacomo Vineyards, both situated in the cool Carneros region of Napa and Sonoma Counties adjacent to the San Francisco/San Pablo Bay. Considered by many to be the home of the best American Pinot, Carneros’ masking fog and cool breezes throughout most of the growing season allow for the hang time needed to develop the flavors of exceptional Pinot Noir.



Winemaking

With Pinot Noir we take a minimal approach to wine making. Fermentations are carried out with as little manipulation as possible. We use a gentle crusher, one short pump-over per day and cool soak the grapes prior to the onset of fermentation. After fermentation the wine is aged for nine months in a combination of French, Oregon and Hungarian barrels. Because of the popularity of this wine, we bottle it in both 750 and 375 ml bottles.



Tasting Notes

This vineyard, given its coastal influence, produces a wine with bright strawberry and cherry flavors, balanced with hints of earth and tobacco. Our approach for Carneros Pinot Noir has always been to produce a classically-styled “Pinot-lover’s Pinot”, with moderate oak, high-tone fruit flavors, a rich nose, juicy palate and long finish.