Walter Hansel 2020 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce Russian River Valley

Winemaker Notes: “ Produced from the highest elevation and is a product of 3 clones; the Hyde/wente; the Hudson/Wente and French Dijon clone 95. These clusters are extremely small and the berries are the size of BB’s; offering rich and flavorful wines. Cuvée Alyce tends to be the most opulent of the Chardonnays from Walter Hansel with beautiful depth and richness. My Mom, Alyce, was an exciting Lady with over-the-top energy and appeal. This wine takes after her.

Robert Parker: “…This is an enviable winery run by Stephen Hansel with exceptionally high-quality Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs that he sells at modest prices, which speaks to his humility and commitment to serious wine consumers. There are more than 80 acres of estate, so it is not small, split evenly between Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. He breaks the cuvées down by their vineyard terroir/site.”

The 2019 vintage was rated 95 points by Antonio Galloni (Vinous): “The 2019 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce is a total knock-out. Rich, ample, and explosive, the 2019 possesses tremendous depth and textural elegance to burn. Citrus confit, white flowers, chamomile, and light tropical notes lend an exotic flair to this striking, beautifully delineated Chardonnay from Hansel. Drink: 2023-2039.