I have a soft spot for Sonoma Coast Pinot and Chardonnay, which are the wines that got me into wine initially. I enjoy tasting a wide variety of producers, especially those with a more Burgundian sensibility.
But I never understood why Marcassin is priced so much higher than its other Sonoma Coast peers. Can someone help me understand what I’m missing.
For those who have had the wines, are they worth the extra tariff (triple or more than others)? Are there other wines that provide a similar experience?
If you want to try the “cheaper” version, check out Ferren. Matt Courtney worked for Marcassin for close to a decade, and his style is the closest thing to Marcassin I’ve had without spending the money. The wines aren’t cheap, but if you enjoy them, you will love Marcassin.
FWIW, Marcassin has a bit more of a Burgundian touch to it, while still reminding you it’s Cali. Ferren tends to lean more towards “I’m Cali”
The mysterious nature of leaving your information on an actual answering machine and keeping your fingers crossed that one day you get the mailer. I never did and never left another message
They bought/have access to some great pieces of dirt with, by now, some old vines… always a good strategy for exceptional wine, esp for folks that have worked with it for a while. Last time I had them, they were better with some air and/or age.
In my humble opinion their Chardonnay is the best in the New World…. If you can afford it buy it and age it.Recently had some Lorenzo and Gauer Marcassin from the late 90’s and they were incredible!The current releases of Marcassin Estate Chardonnay are every bit as good!
Just happened to drink the judge 2005 recently. Pretty stellar stuff as well as some older Peter Michael. I just wish that Marcassin would enter 21st century and offer more frequently
Very interesting, and I appreciate all the information. My curiosity is certainly piqued. If I was curious to try it, would be recommend that I stick to the Estate wines, or would do the other vineyard-designates measure up?
In reality, with price increases at Rhys, Williams Selyem, Ferren, etc., they really are not that much more expensive. If you appreciate that style of wine, they are wonderful Chards (Pinots are ok, but not the same for my tastes). Aubert makes something similar and so does Ferren, but year in and year out, it is a favorite of mine.
I’ve always been a big believer in having a few special occasion wines that you buy regularly and this is one of them for me. I would rather have Coche but that is largely out of my price range now.
