Walter Hansel "Cuvée Alyce" Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2023

Vinous - Antonio Galloni : 92 Points

(1/2025) The 2023 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce emerges from the highest-elevation section of the vineyard and is planted with an assortment of clones, including Hyde Wente, Hudson Wente and Clone 95. Oily and textured in the glass, the Alyce offers lovely textural resonance within the context of the year. Orange confit, crème brûlée, spice and a kiss of French oak linger as the 2023 blossoms with air. Drinking Window: 2025 - 2030.

Jeb Dunnuck : 92 Points

(7/2/2025) The last of Hansel's whites, the 2023 Chardonnay Cuvee Alyce offers more clarity in the range and is lifted with notes of preserved lemon, apricot, honeycomb, and wet stones. It's full-bodied, with a weightless, silky texture and elegant notes of hazelnut coaxing through the palate. It's a very strong offering that should improve over the next few years. Drink 2025-2032. Maturity: 2025 - 2032.