Description
Anderson Valley in Mendocino County, with the cooling influence of the Pacific close by, is widely regarded as one of California’s best regions for growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other cool climate varieties¬. Although the late (and much missed) Milla Handley was not the first winemaker to plant roots along the valley's Highway 128, she was one of the originals when she moved there in 1978. After completing her degree in Fermentation Sciences in 1975 from University of California at Davis, she worked for Richard Arrowood at Chateau St. Jean and Jed Steele at Edmeades. In the Anderson Valley Milla saw not only its natural beauty but its exciting potential - and the chance to "follow her own path, somewhat removed from the entrenched winemaking culture." Handley Cellars was founded in 1982 on the site of the 59-acre Holmes Ranch, where Milla restored the original ranch house, barn and water tower. The 28.5-acre estate vineyard was planted to Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer, and was certified organic in 2005. Handley also buys fruit from other respected and responsible growers in the region. Being kind to the environment was especially important to Milla—the winery runs on 75% solar power, and recently installed an EV charging station on-site for all their like-minded visitors to charge their cars while enjoying Handley’s delicious wines.
The fruit for this Pinot Grigio was sourced from the Helluva and Romani Vineyards, located at opposite ends of Anderson Valley. It is not unusual for these vineyards to be harvested a month apart. Helluva Vineyard provides the tropical and herbal notes while Romani Vineyard provides riper stone fruit characters. Fermentation was in a combination of one third stainless-steel tanks and two thirds large format, neutral wood barrels with stirring and extended lees contact.
Pale golden hue. Bright aromas of poached pear, peach and lemongrass. The palate is fresh and clean, with flavors pear, dried apple and fresh lemon. Beautifully balanced, the purity of this wine really shines; the finish is long and juicy, with persistent fruit.
