Winemaker Randy Schock says that the Handley house style focuses on fruit flavors with no malolactic fermentation, little-to-no-oak contact and lower alcohol. This wine epitomizes that style. The grapes come from older Chardonnay blocks that include Robert Young clones among others. The juice is tank fermented, with no malolactic fermentation, no oak contact and 12.9 percent alcohol. It is bright, lively, and lean, with aromas of Granny Smith apples and lemon zest aroma, leading to flavors of Granny Smith apples, pears and lemons with mouthwatering acidity. Pair it with a chicken stir-fry or fried fish taco.
Handley, Anderson Valley (Mendocino County, California) Chardonnay 2017
By Rebecca Murphy