Hanzell, Chardonnay, "Sebella," Moon Mountain District, Sonoma, California 2024

Ambassador to Italy, James Zellerbach, after his return from Europe, planted vineyards in 1953 with the vision to create a world-class winery. They purchased a property in the southern part of the Mayacamas Mountains, and named it Hanzell, a combination of his wife's name, Hana and his last name, Zell [erbach]. They started with just 3 acres of Chardonnay and 3 acres of Pinot Noir and made their first wine in 1957. At the time, very little Chardonnay and Pinot Noir was planted across Sonoma. Hanzell was also among the first to use stainless steel tanks and cooling equipment for fermentation. The winery has been owned by de Brye family since 1975 who further expanded the vineyards, introduced livestock in the vineyards and have converted to everything organic since 2021.

"Sebella" Chardonnay is made from vines with average age of 21 years. Sourced from the original, Zellerbach plot and Day Vineyard Block- named after the Day family who briefly owned the winery from 1965 until the de Brye family purchased it in 1975. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks and then aged in used French oak for about 6 months. The wine shows notes of just ripe yellow apple, lemon cured, hazelnut with a light crème fraîche note, suggestive of malolactic fermentation. The palate has freshness and focus, typical of the Hanzell wines.

This Chardonnay pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted chicken, creamy pasta, or grilled seafood. Its acidity and fruit characteristics also complement herb-infused dishes and a range of cheeses, making it a versatile choice for any meal.