Walter Hansel Winery Walter Hansel Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2023 750ml

The 2021 Chardonnay The Estate Vineyard is gorgeous. Bright and effusive, with tons of energy, the 2021 Estate is lights out. There is a feeling of precision in the 2021 that is palpable. All the elements are so well balanced. Hints of tangerine oil, mint, dried flowers and chamomile open first, followed by a touch of reduction and then bright mineral accents that pull it all together. The Estate, from Stephen Hansel’s original vines, is exquisite. The price? Ridiculous. (Antonio Galloni)

The 2022 Chardonnay The Estate Vineyard is soft, open-knit and ready to go. Apricot, tangerine peel, mint, spice and chamomile are all nicely lifted. The 2022 is quite attractive, but, like so many 2022s, the mid-palate is a bit light. This is very nicely balanced.<br/><br/>

Coming from different selections throughout this 80-acre ranch's vineyards, the 2022 Chardonnay The Estate Vineyard is a bright medium yellow color and is ripe with aromas of golden apples, ripe peach, tangerine, and baking spice. Full-bodied, it’s sunny and generous on the palate, with a creamy texture and a decadent feel. It’s well-balanced and will show its best over the next 4-5 years. 518 cases were produced.