1998 Purisima Mountain Vineyard Marsanne Varietal/Style: Marsanne Origin: Santa Ynez Valley, CA Vintage: 1998 Winemaker: Steve Beckmen Rating: 13/20 Retail Price: $16

Tasting Notes: From a winery with a passion for Rhône varietals comes what could only be described as an American style of Marsanne. More intense than its French counterparts, this medium-bodied Marsanne hints at unusual aromas of sweet Italian herbs and round fruit flavors in the mouth. Its flaw is its finish, which fails to deliver the same punch. Nevertheless, it is an all around enjoyable wine and a fine choice for a summer day. (Date tasted 08/26/00)

Profile: The goal of this Santa Barbara County winery is to produce world-class Rhône-style wines. The Beckman family has made great strides in showcasing its region as prime Californian grape-growing territory. In addition to Marsanne, Beckman produces Syrah and a Grenache-based Rhône blend as well as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Address:
2670 Ontiveros Rd.
City: Los Olivos, CA
Phone: 805-688-8664
Web site: www.beckmenvineyards.com
E-mail: beckmen@syv.com