Rhys, “Alesia” Anderson Valley Chardonnay Mendocino County, California 2016 (750mL)

The bouquet bursts out of the glass with sweeping notes of white flowers, crushed river rocks, stone fruits, lemon oil, warm honey and tart quince. A buffed, medium-bodied palate caresses pointed flavors of spiced pear, apricot skin, sea salt and orange zest. A core of mineral richness laced with an earthy soil note runs throughout the wine, finishing with focus and precision. This is the epitome of “hands off” winemaking resulting in a wine pulsating with tension and energy. A glorious effort to be enjoyed at 55 degrees in your Burgundy stems after a 30-minute “splash” decanting. Trust me, one taste of this stunner and your brain might think “Burgundy'' but your soul will shout “California!”