Founded in 1982 by winemaker Milla Handley, Handley Cellars is located in the Anderson Valley appellation of Mendocino County, California. Milla Handley and co-winemaker Kristen Barnhisel believe in a winemaking regime that emphasizes terroir, vintage and natural varietal expression. Percentage of whole berries, choice of fermentation yeasts, punch-down regime, length of fermentation time and choice of barrels are all adjusted to fit the fruit. “We use a number of techniques to promote appropriate acidity, minerality and aromatic qualities,” says Milla. She and Kristen are fermentation specialists and will use as many as 20 different cultured or natural yeasts per harvest. Milla and Kristen use sustainable farming methods and prefer to work with winemakers who share their perspective. Fruit is sourced from the Handley’s own 30 acre CCOF certified organic Estate Vineyard or purchased from sustainable and/or organic growers.

Rating

Ultimate Beverage Challenge 89 points (May 2012) A fragrant, luscious wine boasting notes of rose petal, pears and melon, with just a touch of citrus peel. Rich and ripe, with a razor-sharp acidity.  Wine Enthusiast 90 points (Aug 2008) So rich, so honeyed, with an oily texture, this Gewurz is simply wonderful. It shows powerfully ripe peach, pineapple, pear, honeysuckle, lemon cream and dusty spicebox flavors. With balancing acidity, it’s California Gewurz at its most charming. — S.H.  Wine Enthusiast 90 points (Feb /200) So pure and refined, this Gewürz shows how great Anderson Valley can ripen the variety. Throw in Handley’s deft hand, and you get an immensely flavorful, spicy white wine of tremendous balance and finesse. — S.H. As pretty and polished as California Gewürztraminer gets. Shows fabulous Anderson Valley acidity and minerality undergirding varietal flavors of sweet Asian spices, pears, peaches, limes and honeysuckle flowers. With its dry finish, it’s a rich accompaniment to Vietnamese or Thai food. — S.H. Shows the perfect balance and varietal richness that Anderson Valley Gewürztraminers are known for. With crisp acidity, it has exotic flavors of Asian pears, candied pears, tangerines, gingersnap cookies and dusty spices, with a dry finish. Would score much higher if it were more concentrated. — S.H.