Remembering Jed Steele: A Pioneering Winemaker and Lake County Legend Passes at 80

Jed Steele, a prominent figure in the California wine industry and a key winemaker at Kendall-Jackson, passed away on October 31, 2025, at the age of 80 after battling bladder cancer. His contribution to shaping California Chardonnay was invaluable. He was known for championing lesser-known terroirs and supporting new winemakers.

Steele served as the initial winemaking consultant at Kendall-Jackson, where he crafted the first vintages of Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay, which has become the best-selling Chardonnay in America. He was also recognized as "Mr. Lake County," reflecting his influence in the Lake and Mendocino Counties wine regions. After parting ways with Kendall-Jackson in 1991, he established his own winery under his name.

Throughout his career, Steele was known for fostering community and mentorship within the wine industry. David Ramey, a fellow vintner, highlighted Steele’s significant role in both Lake County wine and in introducing a touch of sweetness to Chardonnay, which greatly appealed to American consumers.

Born on January 26, 1945, in New York City, Steele’s family moved to San Francisco when he was young. Introduced to wine by his father, he initially pursued psychology at Gonzaga University. However, his passion for wine led him to take a master’s degree in enology from UC Davis, paving the way for his distinguished career in winemaking.

In 1982, while consulting for Kendall-Jackson, Steele faced a challenge involving stuck fermentations in the grape harvest. His innovative approach combined various lots, resulting in a blended Chardonnay that quickly became a sensation, marking a significant moment in California wine history.

After leaving Kendall-Jackson, Steele’s focus shifted towards promoting smaller vineyards in the Lake and Mendocino regions. His winery gained recognition for its unique Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel varieties. Steele’s boundless enthusiasm for wine often manifested in his interactions with others, including giving bottles to those who demonstrated exceptional service during winemaker dinners.

Apart from his contributions to wine, Steele was remembered for his kindness and willingness to educate others about wine. He is survived by his partner Paula Doran, his former wife Marie Beery, and his children, each of whom carries forward his legacy in the wine industry.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!