Meet Winemaker Greg La Follette
Winemaker Greg La Follette
Performing cellar acrobatics as he prepares to taste wine from the barrel.
In the world of winemaking, there are visionary individuals who possess an exceptional ability to craft wines that transcend expectations. Greg La Follette is one such winemaker—a luminary in the industry renowned for his artistry, commitment to quality, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. Greg La Follette's journey as a winemaker is a testament to his unwavering dedication and pioneering spirit. With over three decades of experience, La Follette has continually pushed the boundaries of winemaking and Marchelle Wines, represents a remarkable culmination of his expertise, passion, and a deep respect for unique and interesting vineyards that is a love story told through wine to his wife Mara.
The Journey
Exploring new frontiers while remaining rooted in tradition, from his tutelage under the famed Napa winemaker André Tchelistcheff at Beaulieu Vineyards to founding winemaker at Flowers Winery and now Marchelle.
La Follette's winemaking philosophy centers around showcasing the unique character of vineyards through a minimalist approach. He believes that wines should be expressive, reflecting the distinct terroir from which they originate. With a deep respect for nature and a commitment to sustainable practices, La Follette works closely with vineyard owners to ensure the finest grapes are selected for his wines.
Marchelle Wines: A New Chapter in Winemaking Excellence
Marchelle Wines represents a thrilling new chapter in Greg La Follette's winemaking journey. Marchelle is a melding of Mara and Michelle, the names of Greg and his partner Kevin’s wives. This project is a heartfelt expression of La Follette's artistry, the culmination of his life's work and the love and dedication of their wives as none of this would have been possible without them.
The Marchelle Founders
Mara and Greg La Follette with Kevin Lee and Michelle Wong and our first bottling of 2018 Old Vine Colombard from Russian River Valley
La Follette's focus with Marchelle Wines lies in crafting small-lot, handcrafted wines of exceptional quality. By sourcing grapes from distinctive and mostly heritage vineyards across California, he aims to capture the essence of each site and bring forth the natural beauty and complexity of the fruit. From the cool-climate vineyards of the Sonoma Coast and Mendocino to the sun-drenched old vines of Lodi, Marchelle Wines offers a diverse portfolio that celebrates the diversity of California's wine regions.
Expressive Wines with Uncompromising Quality
Marchelle Wines presents a portfolio of wines that embody La Follette's unwavering commitment to quality and elegance. From vibrant Chardonnays and exquisite Pinot Noirs to captivating Rhone varietals, each wine is a true reflection of the vineyard and the varietal's unique characteristics.
With meticulous attention to detail, La Follette employs traditional winemaking techniques combined with modern innovations to create wines that harmonize balance, finesse, and complexity. The resulting wines display a purity of fruit, precise acidity, and a seamless integration of flavors—a testament to La Follette's artistry and the exceptional vineyards from which the grapes are sourced.
Marchelle Wines is an exciting addition to the world of winemaking, offering wine enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the craftsmanship and passion of a true visionary. La Follette's dedication to quality, his profound respect for nature, and his ability to highlight the unique terroir of California's vineyards sets Marchelle Wines apart.
Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted bottle, Marchelle Wines invites you to embark on a sensory journey like no other. Explore the exquisite portfolio, savor the expressive flavors, and discover the elegance that lies within each bottle—a testament to Greg La Follette's artistry and his enduring love for winemaking.