Marcassin


History and Background
Marcassin Winery, situated in the Sonoma Coast AVA of California, was established by Helen Turley and her husband, John Wetlaufer, in the early 1990s, not the late 1980s. Helen Turley, a prominent and highly influential figure in the Californian wine industry, has indeed played a critical role in defining the quality and character of Californian wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Vineyards and Terroir
Marcassin's vineyards perfectly showcase the exceptional potential of the Sonoma Coast terroir. The vineyards, especially the renowned Marcassin Vineyard, are characterized by their predominantly sandy loam and clay soils. These well-draining conditions are integral for creating stress on the vines, leading to the production of highly concentrated and impeccably balanced grapes. Famed for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Marcassin thrives under the cool, maritime influence of the region. This climatic condition provides a long growing season, allowing grapes to achieve full flavor maturity while maintaining essential acidity, critical for crafting wines with great complexity and aging capability.
Wine Style and Production
Marcassin's wines are renowned for their intensity, depth, and precision, capturing the essence of the mature vines found on the Sonoma Coast. The winery’s philosophy of minimal intervention allows the wines to fully express the unique characteristics of their terroir, enhanced by meticulous vineyard management and native yeast fermentation. These careful practices ensure the purity and intensity of the flavor profiles. Marcassin ages their wines in new French oak barrels for about 10 to 11 months, adding layers of complexity and enhancing their longevity. This approach results in wines that not only deliver richness and concentration but also maintain a harmonious balance reflective of their origin.
Reputation
Marcassin Winery, founded by Helen Turley and her husband John Wetlaufer, has ascended to nearly mythical status among cult enthusiasts and critics. Located in California’s Sonoma Coast, the winery specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with a particular focus on producing in small quantities. Marcassin’s wines, particularly the Marcassin Vineyard Chardonnay, are renowned for their exceptional quality and complexity. They frequently receive high scores from esteemed wine critics, often nearing or achieving perfect scores in reviews. The combination of limited production—normally around 2,500 to 3,000 cases annually—and stellar reviews makes Marcassin’s offerings some of the most sought-after wines from California. This exclusivity and acclaim mean these wines are particularly prized by collectors around the globe.
Final Thoughts
Marcassin Winery produces some of the finest wine from the Sonoma Coast, showcasing the combined vision and expertise of renowned winemakers Helen Turley and John Wetlaufer. With an uncompromising commitment to quality, Marcassin is distinguished by its meticulous vineyard management and a profound understanding of the region's unique terroir. Specializing in limited-production Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, their winemaking approach involves precise, hands-on techniques that result in wines of unmatched depth and complexity. Marcassin's offerings are celebrated worldwide, making it a coveted choice for connoisseurs of top-tier Californian cult wines. Each bottle delivers an experience rich in elegance and authenticity, truly encapsulating the essence of its coastal origins.