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Handley Cellars Summary

3151 Hwy. 128
Philo ,CA 95466
United States
(707) 895-3876
handleycellars.com

Handley Cellars Description

Handley Cellars is a renowned winery nestled in California's picturesque Anderson Valley. Established in 1982 by Milla Handley, Handley Cellars has long been recognized as a pioneer in producing world-class wines that showcase the unique terroir of this region. With a commitment to sustainable farming practices and a deep respect for the land, Handley Cellars has continuously produced exceptional wines that capture the essence of Anderson Valley.

The winery's portfolio embraces a wide range of varietals, with a particular emphasis on cool-climate grapes such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Handley Cellars' Chardonnays are known for their elegant, well-balanced profiles, combining bright acidity with layers of tropical fruit, citrus, and subtle oak influence. Their Pinot Noirs, on the other hand, showcase the delicate yet complex nature of this finicky grape, with flavors of ripe red berries, earthy undertones, and a lingering finish.

What sets Handley Cellars apart is their commitment to sustainable winemaking. The winery is certified organic and employs biodynamic farming practices, ensuring that their vineyards remain in harmony with the surrounding environment. The result is wines that express the true character of the Anderson Valley, while respecting and nurturing the land from which they come.

Handley Cellars offers an inviting tasting room and beautiful vineyard views, providing visitors with a memorable wine-tasting experience. Whether you are a novice wine enthusiast or a seasoned connoisseur, the knowledgeable and friendly staff at Handley Cellars are always ready to guide you through their impressive collection of wines. Experience the magic of Anderson Valley at Handley Cellars, where exceptional wines and sustainable practices come together in perfect harmony.

What Makes Handley Cellars Different From Other Nearby Wineries?

Handley Cellars, located in Anderson Valley, California, stands out among other wineries in the region for several compelling reasons.

First and foremost, Handley Cellars is renowned for its commitment to sustainable and organic practices. With a belief in responsible farming and winemaking, Handley Cellars has been certified as organic by the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) since 2003. This dedication to organic practices ensures that their wines are not only delicious but also produced in an environmentally conscious manner.

Additionally, Handley Cellars excels in cultivating cool-climate varietals, particularly Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer. This focus on cool-climate grapes sets them apart from many wineries in the area that primarily focus on warmer climate varietals. The cool, foggy climate of Anderson Valley provides the ideal conditions for these delicate and nuanced grape varieties, resulting in wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.

Furthermore, Handley Cellars is known for its small production and hands-on approach to winemaking. The winery produces limited quantities of each wine, allowing for greater attention to detail and quality control throughout the winemaking process. This emphasis on craftsmanship ensures that each bottle of Handley wine is a true reflection of the vineyard and the winemaker's vision.

Handley Cellars also offers a diverse selection of wines, catering to a wide range of palates. While Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer are their flagship varietals, they also produce Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and even sparkling wine. This variety of offerings allows wine enthusiasts to explore different styles and flavors, all while enjoying the consistent quality that Handley Cellars is known for.

Another distinctive aspect of Handley Cellars is their beautiful tasting room and vineyard. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, visiting the winery provides a unique opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Anderson Valley. The tasting room staff is knowledgeable and passionate, creating a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and engage in insightful conversations about the wines.

In summary, Handley Cellars sets itself apart from other wineries in Anderson Valley through its dedication to sustainable and organic practices, its focus on cool-climate varietals, its small production, its diverse selection of wines, and its stunning tasting room and vineyard. These characteristics combine to create an exceptional wine tasting experience that highlights the unique qualities of this remarkable winery.

What Some Possible Concerns About Handley Cellars ?

While it is important to highlight the positive aspects of wineries, it is also essential to provide a balanced view. However, as an AI language model, I don't have access to specific reviews or feedback regarding Handley Cellars. It is recommended to refer to online customer reviews or forums to gather information about any potential negative experiences or criticisms related to Handley Cellars.

Handley Cellars History

Handley Cellars, located in the picturesque Anderson Valley of California's Mendocino County, boasts a rich and fascinating history that spans over four decades.

The story of Handley Cellars begins with its founder, Milla Handley, a passionate and pioneering figure in the California winemaking industry. Milla's journey into the world of wine started in the early 1970s when she became captivated by the burgeoning wine scene in the Anderson Valley. Inspired by the region's ideal climate and diverse terroir, Milla dreamt of crafting wines that showcased the distinct character of the area.

In 1982, Milla Handley made her vision a reality when she established Handley Cellars as a small, boutique winery. She set out to create balanced, elegant wines using traditional winemaking techniques while highlighting the unique qualities of the vineyards she worked with. Milla and her husband, Rex McClellan, transformed their property into a haven for grape growing, cultivating vineyards with meticulous care and attention.

One of the distinguishing features of Handley Cellars is its commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices. Milla was one of the pioneers in the sustainable viticulture movement in California. From the earliest days of the winery, she prioritized organic farming methods, recognizing the importance of preserving the land and producing exceptional wines that express the true essence of the grape varieties.

Handley Cellars quickly gained recognition for its exceptional wines, winning numerous accolades and earning a dedicated following of wine enthusiasts. The winery's signature varietals include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling, all of which thrive in the cool climate of the Anderson Valley. Milla's meticulous vineyard management and her talented winemaking team consistently produced wines of remarkable quality, reflecting the unique character of each vineyard site.

The winery's commitment to sustainable practices extended beyond the vineyard and cellar. Handley Cellars became one of the first California wineries to use lightweight glass bottles, reducing their environmental impact. Milla Handley's dedication to sustainability was not limited to her own operation; she actively participated in numerous environmental and community initiatives, championing responsible stewardship of the land.

Milla Handley's legacy continues to shape the philosophy of Handley Cellars today. Following Milla's retirement in 2016, the winery remained within the family, passing the reins to her daughter, Lulu McClellan. Lulu grew up in the vineyards and developed a deep understanding and passion for winemaking from her mother. Under her leadership, the winery preserves Milla's vision while embracing innovation and modern winemaking techniques.

Handley Cellars remains an iconic and respected name in the Anderson Valley wine community. Their commitment to organic farming, sustainability, and crafting exceptional wines has solidified their reputation as one of California's premier wineries. Visitors to the winery can experience the stunning beauty of the Anderson Valley while learning about Handley Cellars' rich history and enjoying their renowned portfolio of wines.

In conclusion, Handley Cellars' history is not only a testament to the pioneering spirit of Milla Handley but also a reflection of the Anderson Valley's exceptional terroir. Their dedication to organic practices and sustainable winemaking has set a benchmark for the industry, and their wines continue to exemplify the unique character of this remarkable wine region.