Mike’s “Get the Dirt” Q&A with the Garagiste Festival
A while back, the Garagiste Wine Festival invited Mike to take part in its “Get the Dirt” winemaker Q&A, and it is still one of the most honest looks at how Stiekema Wine Co. works.
Why GSM, and why the West Side
In the interview, Mike talks about being a one-man operation: owner, winemaker, website designer and label creator. He explains why GSMs are his pride and joy, wines with so much versatility that are fun to make, drink and blend. He describes why we source only from the West Side of Paso Robles, starting with three Adelaida District vineyards in 2021 and adding a Templeton Gap Grenache vineyard in 2022, and why we use 100% French oak for 14 to 18 months, for the subtle touch it gives Rhône varieties.
He also talks about what makes Paso Robles special: a friendly wine country where people help each other, and grapes that are earning attention alongside some of the world’s most prestigious regions. If he were not in California, he says, he would likely be making wine in Washington, near WSU Tri-Cities, where he studied with his favorite professors.
Behind the label
Mike shares the meaning of the Great Horned Owl on our first label, a symbol of truth, understanding, patience and wisdom, and why being small matters. Small means full control over every decision, and a real connection with the people who support us, down to handwritten thank-you notes for wine club members.
At the heart of it is the goal Mike described: The ultimate goal of SWC is to create wines that are in perfect balance
, which he spells out as mouthfeel, acidity and flavor.
The Q&A dates from our early vintages, so some details, like where tastings are held, have changed since then. GSM is still at the center of what we make, and our current release is the 2024 Stiekema GSM.
Thank you to the Garagiste Festival for championing small producers.
