Walter Hansel 2022 Chardonnay “Estate” Russian River Valley 94 Points

FMW 94 Points: “Gorgeous aromas jumping out of the glass. The 2022 Estate Chardonnay displays a bright yellow-golden color, offering up flavors of honey, melon, and hints of tropical fruit. The youngster is full-bodied, it showcases a very elegant profile on the palate. Throughout the palate, the wine offers up silky texture and hints of minerality. A very elegant, wine that will please both the palate as well as your wallet.”

Jeb Dunnuck: “Coming from different selections throughout this 80-acre ranch’s vineyards, the 2022 Chardonnay The Estate Vineyard is a bright medium yellow color and is ripe with aromas of golden apples, ripe peach, tangerine, and baking spice. Full-bodied, it’s sunny and generous on the palate, with a creamy texture and a decadent feel. It’s well-balanced and will show its best over the next 4-5 years. 518 cases were produced.”

Robert Parker: “…The Hansel wines capture the essence of the Russian River in their exuberant, forward personalities. In my view, the Chardonnays are reference points for what Wente clone Chardonnay is all about. Quality is high across the board and pricing remains incredibly consumer friendly throughout the range, making these some of the most delicious and compelling Sonoma wines readers will come across.”