A selection of the finest barrels, the 2009 Chardonnay Cuvee Alyce (named for Stephen Hansel's mother) is fashioned from both the old Wente clone and the newer Dijon Clone 95. This Chardonnay possesses all the same characteristics as are found in The North Slope, but more structure, restraint and possibly more aging potential. This intense 2009 reveals that overwhelming elegance that is a hallmark of this vintage. The most backward of these estate Chardonnays, it should last for a decade...If I were giving out awards for proprietors who combine remarkable humility with high quality, candidates for the top two spots would be Tom Dehlinger and Stephen Hansel. (2/ 2011)
Bright yellow. Pungent aromas of grapefruit, lemon zest, saffron and mint, with an underpinning of smoky minerals. Dusty citrus and apple flavors are complemented by a sexy floral quality and enlivened by zesty minerality. Finishes with excellent clarity and stony thrust, the floral note repeating. This taut, dry, deeply concentrated chardonnay should age gracefully. (6/ 2011)
Below is a listing of the wine review scores we frequently reference in our notes. While these sources remain an excellent source of information, we always recommend that you trust your own palate. Scores in these publications often represent the personal taste of an individual critic, which may not always coincide with your own. We have a huge team of excellent wine professionals that can match wines you've had in the past with new arrivals that meet your flavor profile.
The item you have chosen is not in stock in our retail stores or within our main warehouse.
2010 Brewer-Clifton Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay $24.99
2010 Walter Hansel "The Meadows" Russian River Valley Chardonnay $24.99
2011 ButterNut California Chardonnay $14.99
2011 Spellbound California Chardonnay $11.99
2011 Napa Cellars Napa Valley Chardonnay $13.99