2006 Handley Cellars Anderson Valley Estate Chardonnay

12.8% alc., 1,934 cases, $22. Ample leaf canopy protected the Chardonnay clusters from the July heat and they ripened fully during moderate weather in August and September. Fruit was carefully dropped and sorted to ensure quality. The wine received a balanced oak regime, fermenting and aging in a combination of new and neutral barrels and puncheons. The wine was aged sur lie for 3 months. 32% of the wine completed MLF. · A bit more apparent acidity and austerity than the above Chardonnay, in part due to lower alcohol.. Equally attractive aromas and flavors of green apples, pears, peaches, almonds, and oak with a citrus bent. The texture is edgy and the finish is refreshingly crisp. Beautifully balanced and a treat to drink. Reviewed August 4, 2008

Winery: Handley Cellars
From article: Handley Cellars is a Model of Consistency