Winemaker Notes
The 2013 Marcien is a "Right Bank" of Napa wine with suppleness balanced by structure. Deep, dark-fruit, perfectly ripe tannin and mouth-watering crispness makes for a classically proportioned stunner of a wine. The moment the cork is pulled, beautiful aromatics waft from the bottle. The bouquet and flavor profile is as effusive as it is complex - fruity, floral notes of violet, black cherry, pomegranate, plum and cassis intertwine with the earthy, herbal notes of bayleaf, dark chocolate, licorice, espresso and graphite, all elevated by a frame of French oak. The impression is of a finely-woven, seamless experience.
The California sunshine left its mark in the rich mouthfeel, while meticulous farming combined with disciplined winemaking preserved the freshness and supple tannin structure that will keep this wine evolving for decades.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.