Hanzell Vineyards Estate Chardonnay 2017
(Sonoma County, California) - [WE 94] [VM 92] [WS 92]

About the Winery:
Ambassador James D. Zellerbach founded Hanzell Vineyards in 1953 with a vision to create wines that could compete on the world stage.  Named after his wife Hana, Hanzell sits at the southern toe of the Mayacamas mountain range overlooking the south-western end of Sonoma Valley and San Pablo Bay.  After extensive time spent in Burgundy, Zellerbach returned inspired and educated by the region’s wines and grapes—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.  He then planted these two varieties at a time when there were less than a few hundred acres of each planted in North America.  Since 1975, Hanzell has been solely owned by the de Brye family, who is dedicated to the preservation of tradition with a progressive and holistic approach which will ensure the sustainability for generations to come.

Notes from the Winemaker:
An estate blend, sourced from thirty-two acres of our Ambassador’s 1953, Day, de Brye, Ramos & Zellerbach vineyard blocks all on rocky volcanic and clay-loam soils. Wente and Hanzell clones are planted primarily on St. George rootstock with an average vine age of thirty-five years.

“Bright notes of lemon zest, citrus blossom and lemon verbena emanate from the glass and open to reveal apricot, green pear and wet granite. Paralleling the aromas, citrus flavors abound on the palate with the addition of lemon oil, grapefruit zest and tangerine. Subtle herbaceous qualities of arugula and thyme show on the long, beautifully textured finish. While absolutely delicious now, we’re certain our 60th vintage will evolve gracefully for decades to come."

94 Points - Wine Enthusiast:
"A lean, structured and complex white wine from the great estate, this offers nuanced, elegant flavors of Meyer lemon, stone and apple. The oak is integrated and youthful, as are firm tannins that support a moderate weight and length of texture. Enjoy from 2025–2030."

92 Points - Wine Spectator:
Well-structured, with focused and pure flavors of freshly cut apple, pear and gooseberry, featuring sea salt and minerally accents. Hints of fennel and dried thyme show on the finish.