For over 20 years Stephen Hansel (Walter Hansel is Stephen’s father) has made quintessential Russian River Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs in the model of Rochioli and Marcassin. That is, rich, complex wines made with full-flavored grapes so everything is in harmony. I’ve had many Walter Hansel Chardonnays over the years, and this is my all-time favorite. Smell and taste dark roast filbert nuts, dark honey, roasted peaches and green apples, buttered wheat toast, blonde caramel, licorice and dried lemon slices. A quick burst of acidity on the finish and a blend of fruit and (dry) confection throughout. This is a Chardonnay that received the compliment, “I don’t usually like the rich, oaky Chardonnays. But THIS I like.“
