Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Welcome to our Marchelle FAQ page — a resource designed to answer the most common questions about our wines, vineyards, winemaking philosophy, and experiences.

About Marchelle Wines

What is Marchelle Wines?

Marchelle Wines is a Sonoma County-based winery founded by Kevin Lee and Greg La Follette. We craft wines from historic old vine vineyards — some planted over 120 years ago — alongside our Pinot Noir estate Harmony Lane near the town of Occidental.

Why is it called “Marchelle?

The name blends “Mara” and “Michelle,” the names of our founders’ spouses, symbolizing family, partnership, and legacy.

Is Greg La Follette still affiliated with La Follette Wines?

No, Greg La Follette does not currently make wines for La Follette Wines; he left the winery in 2016. His focus is mainly on Marchelle which he co-founded and a few small side consulting projects such as Bahl Fratty with noted wine journalist Dan Berger and Nella Terra in the Sunol Highlands

Winemaking & Philosophy

What style of wine does Marchelle make?

We focus on terroir-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and rare old-vine reds such as Carignane, Zinfandel, Cinsaut, Colombard, and Grenache.

What does “old vine” mean at Marchelle?

Many of our vineyards were planted before Prohibition — some as early as the 1880s. These venerable vines yield fewer grapes but produce wines of remarkable depth and history.

Do you use sustainable or natural practices?

Yes. We emphasize organic or sustainable farming, dry farming, native yeast fermentations, a minimal intervention approach, and balanced use of neutral and new French oak.

Wine Education

What is “mouthfeel” in wine?

The texture of wine in your mouth — silky, creamy, tannic, crisp, etc.

What are pH, TA, and VA in wine?

– pH: A measure of acidity; lower pH = brighter wines.
– TA (Total Acidity): The sum of all acids in wine, giving freshness.
– VA (Volatile Acidity): Aromatic acids like acetic acid; small amounts add lift, too much is a flaw.

What is malolactic fermentation?

A natural secondary fermentation that softens sharp malic acid (green apple) into rounder lactic acid (cream), adding smoothness.

What is “pet nat”?

Short for *pétillant naturel*, an ancient sparkling style where wine is bottled before fermentation finishes, capturing natural bubbles.

What does “sur lie” mean?

Aging wine on its lees (spent yeast cells) to enhance body, flavor, and creaminess.

What does “cuvée” mean?

A French term meaning “blend” — a selection of wines combined to create balance and complexity.

What is a “cold soak”?

A pre-fermentation technique where grapes macerate at cool temperatures to extract color and aroma before fermentation begins.

What does “skin contact” mean?

When juice remains in contact with grape skins, extracting color, tannin, and aromatics. Essential in red wines, optional in rosés/orange wines.

What does “neutral oak” vs. “new oak” mean?

– Neutral oak: Used barrels that no longer impart oak flavors, used for structure and texture.

– New oak: Fresh barrels that add notes of vanilla, spice, or toast.

What does “minerality” or “wet stone” mean in wine?

Tasting notes describing flavors reminiscent of crushed rock, chalk, or flint — often linked to soil and terroir.

What is “yield” in viticulture?

The amount of grapes harvested per acre/hectare; lower yields often mean more concentrated wines.

What is “carbohydrate repartitioning strategy”?

A vineyard practice where canopy and leafing are managed to direct the vine’s energy into ripening fruit instead of excessive foliage.

What is ABV?

Alcohol by volume — the percentage of alcohol in wine.

What is Brix?

A measurement of sugar in grapes, which helps predict alcohol potential after fermentation.

Visiting & Experiences

Can I visit Marchelle Wines?

Yes, tastings are by appointment at our winery in Sebastopol or at Vault Wine in Calistoga CA.

What is the Barrel-to-Bottle Experience?

Guests taste wine from barrel, compare it to finished bottles, and learn directly from our winemaking team. Book an appointment

Do you offer wine club memberships?

Yes. Our Clubs have (3-, 6-, 12-bottle tiers) and release twice a year in April and October and provide access to rare old-vine and library wines plus event invitations. Learn more.

Buying & Collecting

How do I purchase Marchelle wines?

Directly from our website or select retail and restaurant partners. Small-production wines sell quickly.

Do you ship outside California?

Yes, to most U.S. states. For international shipping, contact us directly.

How long can I age Marchelle wines?

– Pinot Noir & Chardonnay: 7–15 years.
– Old vine reds (Carignane, Zinfandel, Cinsaut): decades, developing savory depth.

History & People

Who is Greg La Follette?

Greg is co-founder and our head winemaker, with 40+ years of experience at Flowers, Tandem, La Follette, and Alquimista, recognized as one of California’s top Pinot and Chardonnay pioneers. Read more about Greg La Follette.

Who is Kevin Lee?

Kevin is co-founder of Marchelle and vineyard owner at Harmony Lane, bringing Silicon Valley marketing expertise to building the winery’s story and community. Read more about Kevin Lee

Who is Evan Damiano?

Evan is our winemaker and Greg’s protege. He works closely with Greg in the cellar and out in the vineyards with our growers. He has made wine and worked harvests in Australia, Oregon and Sonoma. He has over 14+ years in the wine industry, hospitality and winemaking. Prior to Marchelle he was an Enologist with Pride Mountain Vineyards.