Palate
Excellent New World fruit aromas and flavors of berry, cherry, bacon and a touch of nutmeg and cinnamon. The rich, full-bodied palate has subtle fruit with medium tannins and well-integrated oak. The finish is long with a hint of leather in the back palate.
Growing Conditions
The grapes used to craft the Steele Stymie Syrah are sourced from Jacobsen vineyard on Jed’s home property in Kelseyville. Jed planted this small vineyard in 2002. It is made up of 6 acres of Syrah and 1 acre of Counoise. A small amount of Syrah fruit also comes from Fiora vineyard in the northeast corner of Clearlake. Don Fiora planted his Syrah vineyard in 1992. Since the first year of production, Don’s fruit has been exceptional. Annually, it is typically the first red that we harvest and its consistent quality is something to be recognized.
Winemaking
We use our typical Syrah winemaking techniques on the Stymie, including gentle crushing and fermentation temperature below 90 degrees F.
Aging
We aged this wine in American and French oak barrels for 22 months.
Appearance
Steele Stymie Syrah shows a rich, dark red color with firm body.
Food Pairing
There’s enough fruit to enjoy through the warmer months with grilled lamb or steak, yet enough body and structure to pair well with winter cassoulet, stews, game, and braised shanks.
