Hanzell Vineyard Chardonnay 'Sonoma Valley' 2019

Industrialist James D. Zellerbach acquired the 200 acre Hanzell estate on the Mayacamas slopes above the town of Sonoma in 1948, and in 1952 he planted 2 acres of Pinot Noir and 4 acres of Chardonnay on the site. The Ambassador's ambition was to create a small vineyard and winery dedicated to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Zellerbachs created the first vintage in 1957 and named their winery Hanzell, a contraction of Mrs. Hana Zellerbach's name.

The original 6 acre vineyard has grown to 42 acres today, allowing Hanzell to produce 6,000 cases annually: three-quarters Chardonnay and one-quarter Pinot Noir, retaining its identity as a very small winery dedicated to making the Burgundian varietals at the Grand Cru level.

Exquisite aromas of Bosc pear, green mango, lemon zest and jasmine mingle with scents reminiscent of brioche, anise and dusty slate. While the expansive flavors echo the aromas, there is saline quality that gives a savory tone to the overall impression. The taught structure gives the sense of a lighter weight.

93 Points - Wine Spectator

Precise and fresh, offering perfectly ripe Bartlett pear, lemon zest and Fuji apple flavors, with hints of makrut lime leaf and sea salt, followed by a note of buttery brioche on the elegant finish. Drink now.