Founded in 1982 by winemaker Milla Handley, Handley Cellars is located in the Anderson Valley
appellation of Mendocino County, California. Milla Handley and co-winemaker Kristen Barnhisel believe
in a winemaking regime that emphasizes terroir, vintage and natural varietal expression. Percentage of
whole berries, choice of fermentation yeasts, punch-down regime, length of fermentation time and choice
of barrels are all adjusted to fit the fruit. "We use a number of techniques to promote appropriate acidity,
minerality and aromatic qualities,” says Milla. She and Kristen are fermentation specialists and will use
as many as 20 different cultured or natural yeasts per harvest. Milla and Kristen use sustainable farming
methods and prefer to work with winemakers who share their perspective. Fruit is sourced from the
Handley's own 30 acre CCOF certified organic Estate Vineyard or purchased from sustainable and/or
organic growers.
| Tasting notes |
| Fresh and aromatic flavors of
cassis, tea leaves, bergamot and citrus highlight the berry notes in this smooth and subtle rose. The
creamy mousse enhances the rich mouthfeel and carries flavors of frais de bois and a hint of citrus on
the long and pleasant finish. |
| Technical notes |
| 88% Pinot Noir/12% Chardonnay). The Pinot Noir fruit was crushed and macerated on its skins for
four hours to extract color after which it was transferred to stainless steel tanks to compete
fermentation. The Chardonnay was whole-cluster pressed to tank and fermented in barrel with
battonage and full malolactic. The wine remained on its lees for several months to add complexity and
depth and the blend aged for 19 months in bottle before disgorgement. |
