WTN: 1997 Steele Zin (DuPratt Vineyard)

1997 Steele Zinfandel DuPratt Vineyard (Mendocino) 13%
I really loved the Steele Zins through the 90s. I don’t really see much Steele around anymore and the DuPratt vineyard sold and seems to have gone off the map. Anyway, how was this 10 year old? Color was holding up well. The nose is showing restrained sweet leather and a small amount of dark fruits. There is bright clean fruit on the palate with med/high acids. The flavors are Cab/Bordeaux like but no hard tannins. Works well with food. Lots of complexity with a somewhat short finish. Very nice of a 10 year old Zin. 89 pts.

Jason

Thanks, Jason for the note! I have a Steele Pacini Vineyard (2004) in my cellar and I'm intrigued by this winery based on tasting notes and descriptions.

1997 Steele Zinfandel DuPratt Vineyard (Mendocino) 13%
I really loved the Steele Zins through the 90s. I don’t really see much Steele around anymore and the DuPratt vineyard sold and seems to have gone off the map. Anyway, how was this 10 year old? Color was holding up well. The nose is showing restrained sweet leather and a small amount of dark fruits. There is bright clean fruit on the palate with med/high acids. The flavors are Cab/Bordeaux like but no hard tannins. Works well with food. Lots of complexity with a somewhat short finish. Very nice of a 10 year old Zin. 89 pts.

Jason

I remember those Zins very favorably, not over the top, balanced, no 15+ alcohol. How things have changed.

I remember those Zins very favorably, not over the top, balanced, no 15+ alcohol. How things have changed.

Yep. I used to brag about how I liked aged Zins but that all changed when most started producing massive 16+% Zins. I sometimes enjoy those but you have to drink them very early or they just become big messes.

Jason