Although none of Steele's Pinot Noirs were outstanding, they are all well-made, juicy, straightforward wines that need to be drunk over the next 4-5 years. The 1995 Pinot Noir Du Pratt Vineyard possesses the most saturated dark ruby/purple color of this group. The nose offers up copious quantities of black fruits and new oak. While not complicated, it is satisfying, rich, and round. Drink this generously-endowed, medium to full-bodied, spice/fruit-styled wine over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (707) 279-9475

With respect to Jed Steele's red wines, the 1994 Pinot Noir Du Pratt Vineyard is nearly outstanding. The wine reveals a dark ruby/purple color, as well as a broad, penetrating, sweet nose of black-raspberries with gentle oak in the background. Medium to full-bodied, supple, and lush, with low acidity and gobs of ripe fruit, this is a hedonistic Pinot Noir to drink over the next 2-4 years. Tel. (707) 279-9475