2014 Walter Hansel Chardonnay Russian River Valley
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Tasting notes
Deep gold. Oh-so smoky – almost bacony – very prevalent oak use with a sweet vanilla character as well as an intensely savoury character that makes it reminiscent of rumaki (crunchy watercress and bacon). Good length to the finish. (SCJ)
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Hansel's 2014 Chardonnay The Estate Vineyard is arguably the single best value in California Chardonnay. Bright, focused and delineated, the 2014 shows all the energy of the vintage along with the richness that is typical of Russian River Chardonnay. Proprietor Stephen Hansel has made a decision to price this wine to be accessible to young consumers. He has done that, and so much more. If I had to recommend one affordable California to buy by the case or to serve as a house pour, this would be it.
this outstanding Chardonnay that sells for a song. Notes of orange marmalade, honeysuckle and lemon oil jump from the glass of this crisp, light-straw, medium-bodied wine with outstanding concentration and density. This is a beauty that sees plenty of oak, but the wood is hidden because of the richness of the fruit. It should drink well for 3-4 years.