Handley Cellars and Teira

Value Brands 2008

Top 9 American Value Brands

Handley

What: Cool-climate whites from one of the benchmark names of Anderson Valley.

Standout: The '06 Anderson Valley Pinot Gris is layered and complex, easily among the best pinot gris made in California. Likewise, Handley's '06 Anderson Valley Gewurztraminer is an Alsatian rock star hiding out on California's north coast. Both run $18.

Where: Milla Handley owns vineyards in Anderson Valley and Dry Creek Valley, and her winery is located outside of Philo, CA.

When: Open a bottle of the Pinot Gris with grilled weisswurst, while the Gewurztraminer, with its spicy citrus flavors and bright acidity, is the choice for Thai curry.

The Pinot Gris received 94 points and was one of only 2 California wineries selected in this category.

Also noted... Handley 2006 Anderson Valley Hein Vineyard Pinot Blanc (89 points): This bright white has pale apple and grape skin flavors, with a sweet hint of bee pollen in the end. A fine, summery, aperitif. (340 cases)

Critic's Picks 2008 BRIGHT RED: Handley 2006 Pinot Noir Mendocino County...

TEIRA 2006 Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc 87 points: Green scents of mint and mexican peppers give this plump wine a clean edge. It finishes on the flavor of grapefruit pith. Serve with raw clams. (1,490 cases)

For a detailed recap of the tasting wineandspiritsmagazine.com