“We did not set out to make these wines. We discovered great vineyards at the edge of sensible farming and decided to bring them to light.”
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Ian Brand is a renowned winemaker in California's Monterey County, known for his unconventional path and unwavering commitment to showcasing the region's unique terroir. With no formal winemaking education, he gained experience at Bonny Doon and Big Basin Vineyards before launching his own labels: Le P'tit Paysan, La Marea, and I. Brand & Family.
Brand emphasizes minimal intervention and allowing each vineyard's character to shine through. He meticulously selects vineyards, working closely with growers to ensure sustainable practices and optimal fruit quality. He's particularly drawn to lesser-known varieties and vineyards, championing the region's unique identity and encouraging a focus on local, sustainable practices.
Beyond his own wines, Brand actively mentors other winemakers and collaborates with growers to elevate the region's reputation. He's recognized for his innovative approach, tireless promotion of Monterey County, and commitment to showcasing the region's diverse terroirs and high-quality wines.
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La Marea, (Spanish for “The Tide”), made by Ian Brand of Le P’tit Paysan, is a tiny winery focused on single vineyard Spanish varietals “rooted in the sea, the soil and the sea air”.
The proximity to the cool ocean waters Monterey Bay provides an optimal climate for Albarino while the warmer Monterey side canyons and San Benito Valleys closely resemble the Spanish regions where these grapes thrive. This region, once the site of a shallow ocean bed millions of years ago, is one of the few spots in California with a high percentage of limestone found in the soil.
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Description text goes here
2018 La Marea Grenache, Central Coast
Grenache 97.7% | Syrah 1.4% | Mourvedre 0.9%
pH: 3.45 | TA: 5.4 g/L | ABV: 13.6%
210 cases produced
Élevage: 30% whole cluster, spontaneous fermentation in open top tanks. Aged in neutral oak on lees for 18 months.Bottled unfined and unfiltered
Blended from three sites on the Central Coast, one in San Benito County, one in Monterey County and one in Santa Clara County.
Aromas of layered red fruit framed by a chalky undertones. On the palate, acid leads, allowing bright red fruits, strawberries, cherries and raspberries to pop with a beam of minerality. Green anise and fennel appear on the finish to complement the persistent red fruit.
