Jed Steele, the acclaimed winemaker who helped launch Kendall-Jackson’s iconic Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay, has died at the age of 80 after a battle with cancer.
The Press Democrat reports Steele was crucial in developing the country’s bestselling Chardonnay in 1982. Following his departure from Kendall-Jackson, he became a champion for the Lake County wine region, establishing his own successful eponymous label.
The celebrated vintner passed away on October 31st.
