Handley Cellars, Their 41st Year in Anderson Valley
The Background
Last weekend had the opportunity to explore and taste wines from Anderson Valley. While only having a little free time, managed to visit Handley Vineyards Cellars just outside Philo in Anderson Valley.
The Winery
Handley Cellars is a family owned winery in Mendocino County. They began in 1982 and today produce approximately 9,000 cases of wine yearly. They received their CCOF Certified Organic Estate Vineyards status and are located on the western end of Anderson Valley on 59 acres. Milla Handley’s goal was to produce balanced wines which reflect the soil and climate of this unique northwest to southeast valley. The current winemaker is Randy Schock crafting similar fruit driven wines. Milla’s daughter Lulu now runs Handley Cellars with her husband Scott.
The Handley Cellars Tasting Room
Photo ©Michael Kelly
There are actually two tasting areas, one indoors and one outdoors. The view from the outdoor patio area is spectacular.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Even with umbrellas and tree canopy shading the patio, it was too warm so we elected to taste indoors.
Photos ©Michael Kelly
The indoor tasting room was appointed in rich colors that were warm and inviting despite having “a few elephants” obviously in the room!
The Wines “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Our host was the very knowledgeable and accommodating Derek Magdalik, who provided significant background information on Anderson Valley and directed us to some of the better wines to be tasted. It was very much appreciated.We started out with Pinot Gris, not necessarily one of my favorites, but Derek insisted we try this one and sure enough it got my attention as the fragrance was outstanding.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
We quickly moved into the Pinot Noir which Anderson Valley is noted for producing. This was a 2019 Pinot Noir from Helluva Vineyard, a beautiful purple and brick red hue.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Next up was a comparison between 2019 Handley Estate Vineyard and the 2018 Handley Estate Vineyard. Both were smooth and refreshing, but the younger 2019 won my vote as being the best and a bottle was purchased to bring home for a friend.
Besides their six different Pinot Noirs from single vineyards, they offer a Zinfandel, Syrah, Petite Sirah and a red blend. Also on hand are a sparkling wine, white wines (7) and two Roses.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
We then tried two other reds, a Petite Sirah and Syrah which come from Redwood Valley, approximately 30 miles as the crows fly further inland and to the northeast. The drive takes about 48 minutes to drive there. A warmer climate for these two varietals. Both were a very good and enjoyable.
While only having an hour to enjoy the tasting and getting our first up close indoctrination into Anderson Valley, we will be back to partake in a more leisurely tasting.
Sláinte,
Michael