MarBeso

MarBeso is a small-production winery in Buellton, California, focused on vineyard-designated wines from Santa Barbara County and the Santa Cruz Mountains. Colin and Hannah McNany are the couple behind the label, founded in 2019; its name means “kiss of the sea.” That coastal connection guides the vineyard choices, including Spear and Kessler-Haak in the Sta. Rita Hills American Viticultural Area and Ascona in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Colin’s winemaking experience spans Leeuwin Estate in Australia’s Margaret River and Martinborough Vineyards in New Zealand. At MarBeso, the approach centers on natural yeasts and bacteria, neutral French oak that keeps wood flavors in the background, and bottling without fining or filtration. The emphasis is on acidity and the character of each vineyard rather than heavy cellar treatment.

The visit is a cellar tasting with Colin in an industrial setting at 65 Los Padres Way—not a vineyard-view outing. A 45-minute tasting of current releases costs $45 per person and requires an advance reservation. The draw is direct access to the person making the wine. Groups of 10 or more need to arrange their visit directly with the winery.