($30):  Jed Steele has a long history of making fine wine in California so my enthusiasm for this wine is not surprising.  Steele purchases grapes from the Goodchild Vineyard which is located just across the river from the famed Bien Nacido vineyard (He also makes a Pinot Noir from grapes grown in that vineyard.)  This one intertwines ripe red fruit and savory flavors seamlessly.  With each sip different notes appear, yet always complement one another.  The tannins are smooth and polish and bright acidity keeps this 14.3 percent stated alcohol fresh.  It’s a bargain price for Pinot Noir of this stature.  The only problem will be finding it since he produced only 186 cases.
95 Michael Apstein Apr 24, 2018