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Wonderful time with delicious wines. Staff is so friendly and knowledgeable, super cozy with a wood burning stove and best of all my best girl got to come in with us. We will definitely be back.
We were on our way back home and decided to stop in and try this place. The scenery was beautiful and were greeted by friendly staff right away. There was plenty of seating available outside and was very relaxing for our tasting. I am partial to reds and they had a nice variety, some slightly more tart than what I prefer but to each their own. However, we both really liked their 2016 Zin so purchased a bottle of that. My guy and I really enjoyed our sommelier, and since I'm late on this post forgot her name unfortunately. I recognized her Michigan accent from my home state so was nice to chat about that. I highly recommend this place for a tasting out on their beautiful patio, outgoing staff, and hope to return!
My friend and I chose to go to this winery because we were looking for dog friendly wineries in the area. This was listed as dog friendly, and the photos of the tasting room area looked visually pleasing, so we decided to check it out. It wasn't too busy at all when we went on a Sunday afternoon. Derek was our wine attendant and was very knowledgeable and friendly. He made us feel very welcomed there. Great dude, give him a raise for us. The winery is full of cute and niche decor that the owners collected from all over the world. It felt very down to earth. We loved how tranquil the patio was, plenty of shade, lots of beautiful statues, and lovely scenery overlooking the vineyards. If we're ever in the area again, we'll be back.
I really want to give this place a higher rating but from the experience I had it felt so displaced. We arrived after finishing coming from Lula Winery (great place by the way) and we're greeted but almost with annoyance as we were a large party. I never caught the name of the lady hosting but she was a short hair blonde woman who gave Karen Vibes as she was not very nice or courteous to our arrival. An older woman was also there and she was somewhat more pleasant but not memorable, which sucks because she gave loving grandma vibes at first until the rest of our party showed up. We didn't have a reservation, but we also don't expect that from a winery from previous experiences, and the fact that we're traveling and they're located literally in the middle of no where didn't seem right to expect that from passerby's. We weren't allowed to come in because they only sat for a table for 2-4 guests? It was so un-inviting and poorly received to welcome guests that have never been to their winery. I really wanted to give it a chance because it's a beautiful property. So anyway we don't have a reservation but they said we could sit in the picnic area and order by the glass ... we have never tried their wine so... not sure that really would work effectively. We sit in the area they say to sit but they don't come to us nor tell us what the arrangement is for ordering wine so we were out there for 10 minutes before I decided to walk in and ask if they would tend to us only to find out that we had to go to them and order wine inside. We left there not trying not one of their wines because they treated us as if they didn't care and didn't want our patronage. I was so disappointed in that level of treatment. Dare I say it was because we were darker skinned or looked middle class, but it almost felt that way? We drive by a General Store on our way back to our Airbnb and I tell them of our experience and they mention how their original owner passed away and how she would never have treated us that way. It was somber to say the least because the thought of not tending to potential customers seems mind boggling. I couldn't believe it that we weren't treated with more decency. I hope the level of service improves for any large parties who simply wish to try wines and enjoy a good time. Let alone to Celebrate a couple of birthdays. Thanks Handley Cellars for such a displeasing first encounter.
Go big or go home, they said. Well if you come to Handley Cellars, you definitely won't wanna go back home anytime soon! This beautiful winery and tasting room is located in the quaint town of Philo right off of highway 128. Their signage is hard to miss as it is big and bright and located on the right side of the highway if you are coming from Booneville. The drive up the small hill is fun and it exposes you to their lovely vineyards. Their patio is actually located on the right side of their tasting room as opposed to in the back. They have a very spacious outdoor area with plenty of tables and some nice shaded areas for those super warm days. Inside, you will find their tasting room with two different tasting bars. I did my tasting at the bigger bar that has a cabana-like structure. The staff here are some of the most jovial that I've come across in a while! Now to the wines; Handley has quite a spread here! I tasted their 2016 Pinot Noir Rose, 2015 Pinot Gris, 2016 Sauvignon Blanc, 2014 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, and their 2014 Yorkville Highlands Pinot Noir. I'm not the biggest lover of white wine, so I knew that I probably wouldn't be a fan of the Sauvignon Blanc. Their Sauvignon Blanc actually wasn't as tart as some that I've tasted in the past, but it wasn't my favorite. Also wasn't a big fan of their Pinot Noir Rose, but I think it's because I prefer sweeter and bubblier rose. This rose was more on the tart side. I was, however, really surprised by their Pinot Gris! It was smooth and fruity with nice hints of pear that I really enjoyed. I would totally sit out on the patio on a hot summer evening and sip on that Pinot Gris! I also really loved their 2014 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir! That Pinot was straight fire! They age many of their wines in steel barrels which contributes to the smoothness of their wines. This particular Pinot was light and silky and appealed the most to my taste buds. The 2014 Yorkville Highlands Pinot is made in a barrel that's set higher up in the hills, so the taste is a little more peppery with high notes of cherry. If you're looking for something with more of a kick, this Yorkville Pinot is definitely the way to go. Overall, I had a wonderful experience at Handley Cellars and I would definitely come back! I highly recommend their 2015 Pinot Gris and their 2014 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir.
Five star all the way. I am a huge fan!! Came here last weekend for a Yelp and CellarPass tasting event. The tasting room and vineyard are absolutely beautiful. They have a variety of white and red wines to choose from. Staff at Handley Cellars were so accommodating and friendly. They went above and beyond to ensure guests were having a great time. Among all the wineries I visited that day, Handley Cellars was the only one where I made a purchase. I like smooth and sweet white and red and was super impressed by their late harvest Riesling. I am usually a bit indifferent towards Rieslings but man this late harvest Riesling they have is perfection! It's actually a dessert wine that has a clean and crisp fruity taste with a hint of honey. It's very refreshing and not overly sweet. Sunshine in a bottle is a perfect description. Plus who doesn't like honey, honey?! It's not cheap by any means but I had to have it. When I got home after a long day sipping through Anderson Valley, I was so excited to take my bottle of sunshine out but noticed that the bottle had wine all over it. I was very frustrated and wondered why it was like that. Did I just get a bad bottle? I called Handley Cellars the following day. Chris spoke to me on the phone. He happened to be the same gentleman who helped me with my purchase at the event. I explained to him what had happened. It turned out it was because I left the bottle of wine in the car all day in almost 90 degree weather. I had no idea that caused the wine cork to pop! Now I know! Chris said he wanted me to enjoy my wine and do what is right. He took down my information and promised to ship me another bottle free of charge! Two days later I have a brand new bottle of the same late harvest Riesling sitting at my desk! Wow! Talk about stellar customer service!! Thank you so much Chris and Handley Cellars. You have gained a loyal customer. I can't wait to visit this awesome winery again. When I want to enjoy a bottle of sunshine or need an excellent dessert wine for a gift, I know where to turn to!!!
We have arrived in the heart of Pinot country and to have Handley Cellars welcome us was a treat! Yelpers near and far congregated at this lovely host winery for Yelp's Grape Escape 2017 ~ Alexander Valley. They pulled out the red carpet for us Yelpers on a lovely Saturday (Nascar & Pride weekend). The weather was perfect with light winds. I'm still glad I brought my Yelp fan hahaha. This was an EPIC Grape Escape and Handley Cellars poured some delicious wines. As I'm sipping and mingling, the Pinot Noir stood out the most, and I thought to myself "duh" we're in Alexander Valley. This property is gorgeous and unique, sit in one of those chairs inside the tasting room. There's something about Alexander Valley wineries compared to Napa - unpretentious. Thank you for the stellar hospitality. It was a nice drive from Marin, not that far approximately two hours if one leaves at the crack of dawn. I love that we get to visit such wineries in California, it's just a drive away. 'Til we meet again ~ cheers and see you on Yelp!
Returned here after a previous visit a few months back and had some more great wines and conversation with the same lady who helped us the last time. The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay here are very good and for the quality the prices are reasonable. They have a nice little patio where they do the tastings and both times we were here we got to meet some nice dogs and cats (and their owners). This place is worth putting on your itinerary.
Hubby and I were in Anderson Valley for white wine weekend, and we decided to start our Sunday morning here at Handley. They were offering brunch with tastings for their open house that day, so we each got one small plate of eggs, bacon, and potatoes with our wine! We had a wonderful time. Beautiful scenery outside, great decor inside, friendly staff, and tasty wines! We ended up buying two bottles of wine to take home and enjoy - a Pinot Blanc and a Riesling. We were able to bring our dog inside the tasting room with us, but they also have outdoor seating that would be nice when the weather's warm!
Handley Cellars is the best winery I have ever been to. The wine is great, but what really makes it stand out to me is the experience. I have been here twice. The first time I thought I would be going in for just a free tasting, but the sommelier who helped us was so friendly she really made the experience. Not only did we get to do a tasting, but she brought us black berries from the farm to pair with the wine. We were there late in the day on a Sunday and since they were about to close she took us on a tour of the winery and the gardens/farm. The location is beautiful, especially around sunset. We were given some produce from the farm, and chocolates to take home. I ended up purchasing a membership which I never thought I would do, as well as two bottles of wine then and there. Recently I went back again, and this same person invited us to come see how wines are made. It meant we had to get up really early, but the experience was amazing. I learned how red wines basically need to be mixed more than once a day, and about how the process the grapes, and the yeast that are used, and more. I have never had such outstanding service and will be back to visit Handley many times in the future I am sure. Thanks again.
Handley is a must see destination for any lovers of true organic spirit. Lush astounding flavors. Elegant ambiance on a wisteria covered patio, overlooking the grape vineyards and old farm house.
Handley was our first stop on my very first visit to Anderson Valley as part of Yelp's Grape Escape. Perched on a knoll, this welcoming spot has a nice view out over rolling hills full of grapevines. We spent some time on their lovely outdoor patio, under a wisteria-covered trellis. The staff could not have been friendlier and treated us to Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir Rose, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. We enjoyed them all, and took home some Rose and Pinot to enjoy later. For wine club enthusiasts, they have a variety of flexible options. Check out their Brightlighter Selection for 4 bottles 3x a year. Fewer bottles per shipment spread out over more shipments helps keep home wine storage from overflowing. I hope more wineries start to do this! The tasting room staff also said membership grants you access to the rental house on the property as a bonus. We'll be back, and we'll bring friends. Great experience all around.
4 months ago
2 years ago
Wonderful time with delicious wines. Staff is so friendly and knowledgeable, super cozy with a wood burning stove and best of all my best girl got to come in with us. We will definitely be back. read more
1 year ago
We were on our way back home and decided to stop in and try this place. The scenery was beautiful and were greeted by friendly staff right away. There was plenty of seating available outside and was very relaxing for our tasting. I am partial to reds and they had a nice variety, some slightly more tart than what I prefer but to each their own. However, we both really liked their 2016 Zin so purchased a bottle of that. My guy and I really enjoyed our sommelier, and since I'm late on this post forgot her name unfortunately. I recognized her Michigan accent from my home state so was nice to chat about that. I highly recommend this place for a tasting out on their beautiful patio, outgoing staff, and hope to return! read more
3 years ago
My friend and I chose to go to this winery because we were looking for dog friendly wineries in the area. This was listed as dog friendly, and the photos of the tasting room area looked visually pleasing, so we decided to check it out. It wasn't too busy at all when we went on a Sunday afternoon. Derek was our wine attendant and was very knowledgeable and friendly. He made us feel very welcomed there. Great dude, give him a raise for us. The winery is full of cute and niche decor that the owners collected from all over the world. It felt very down to earth. We loved how tranquil the patio was, plenty of shade, lots of beautiful statues, and lovely scenery overlooking the vineyards. If we're ever in the area again, we'll be back. read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
I really want to give this place a higher rating but from the experience I had it felt so displaced. We arrived after finishing coming from Lula Winery (great place by the way) and we're greeted but almost with annoyance as we were a large party. I never caught the name of the lady hosting but she was a short hair blonde woman who gave Karen Vibes as she was not very nice or courteous to our arrival. An older woman was also there and she was somewhat more pleasant but not memorable, which sucks because she gave loving grandma vibes at first until the rest of our party showed up. We didn't have a reservation, but we also don't expect that from a winery from previous experiences, and the fact that we're traveling and they're located literally in the middle of no where didn't seem right to expect that from passerby's. We weren't allowed to come in because they only sat for a table for 2-4 guests? It was so un-inviting and poorly received to welcome guests that have never been to their winery. I really wanted to give it a chance because it's a beautiful property. So anyway we don't have a reservation but they said we could sit in the picnic area and order by the glass ... we have never tried their wine so... not sure that really would work effectively. We sit in the area they say to sit but they don't come to us nor tell us what the arrangement is for ordering wine so we were out there for 10 minutes before I decided to walk in and ask if they would tend to us only to find out that we had to go to them and order wine inside. We left there not trying not one of their wines because they treated us as if they didn't care and didn't want our patronage. I was so disappointed in that level of treatment. Dare I say it was because we were darker skinned or looked middle class, but it almost felt that way? We drive by a General Store on our way back to our Airbnb and I tell them of our experience and they mention how their original owner passed away and how she would never have treated us that way. It was somber to say the least because the thought of not tending to potential customers seems mind boggling. I couldn't believe it that we weren't treated with more decency. I hope the level of service improves for any large parties who simply wish to try wines and enjoy a good time. Let alone to Celebrate a couple of birthdays. Thanks Handley Cellars for such a displeasing first encounter. read more
Go big or go home, they said. Well if you come to Handley Cellars, you definitely won't wanna go back home anytime soon! This beautiful winery and tasting room is located in the quaint town of Philo right off of highway 128. Their signage is hard to miss as it is big and bright and located on the right side of the highway if you are coming from Booneville. The drive up the small hill is fun and it exposes you to their lovely vineyards. Their patio is actually located on the right side of their tasting room as opposed to in the back. They have a very spacious outdoor area with plenty of tables and some nice shaded areas for those super warm days. Inside, you will find their tasting room with two different tasting bars. I did my tasting at the bigger bar that has a cabana-like structure. The staff here are some of the most jovial that I've come across in a while! Now to the wines; Handley has quite a spread here! I tasted their 2016 Pinot Noir Rose, 2015 Pinot Gris, 2016 Sauvignon Blanc, 2014 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, and their 2014 Yorkville Highlands Pinot Noir. I'm not the biggest lover of white wine, so I knew that I probably wouldn't be a fan of the Sauvignon Blanc. Their Sauvignon Blanc actually wasn't as tart as some that I've tasted in the past, but it wasn't my favorite. Also wasn't a big fan of their Pinot Noir Rose, but I think it's because I prefer sweeter and bubblier rose. This rose was more on the tart side. I was, however, really surprised by their Pinot Gris! It was smooth and fruity with nice hints of pear that I really enjoyed. I would totally sit out on the patio on a hot summer evening and sip on that Pinot Gris! I also really loved their 2014 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir! That Pinot was straight fire! They age many of their wines in steel barrels which contributes to the smoothness of their wines. This particular Pinot was light and silky and appealed the most to my taste buds. The 2014 Yorkville Highlands Pinot is made in a barrel that's set higher up in the hills, so the taste is a little more peppery with high notes of cherry. If you're looking for something with more of a kick, this Yorkville Pinot is definitely the way to go. Overall, I had a wonderful experience at Handley Cellars and I would definitely come back! I highly recommend their 2015 Pinot Gris and their 2014 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir. read more
9 years ago
Five star all the way. I am a huge fan!! Came here last weekend for a Yelp and CellarPass tasting event. The tasting room and vineyard are absolutely beautiful. They have a variety of white and red wines to choose from. Staff at Handley Cellars were so accommodating and friendly. They went above and beyond to ensure guests were having a great time. Among all the wineries I visited that day, Handley Cellars was the only one where I made a purchase. I like smooth and sweet white and red and was super impressed by their late harvest Riesling. I am usually a bit indifferent towards Rieslings but man this late harvest Riesling they have is perfection! It's actually a dessert wine that has a clean and crisp fruity taste with a hint of honey. It's very refreshing and not overly sweet. Sunshine in a bottle is a perfect description. Plus who doesn't like honey, honey?! It's not cheap by any means but I had to have it. When I got home after a long day sipping through Anderson Valley, I was so excited to take my bottle of sunshine out but noticed that the bottle had wine all over it. I was very frustrated and wondered why it was like that. Did I just get a bad bottle? I called Handley Cellars the following day. Chris spoke to me on the phone. He happened to be the same gentleman who helped me with my purchase at the event. I explained to him what had happened. It turned out it was because I left the bottle of wine in the car all day in almost 90 degree weather. I had no idea that caused the wine cork to pop! Now I know! Chris said he wanted me to enjoy my wine and do what is right. He took down my information and promised to ship me another bottle free of charge! Two days later I have a brand new bottle of the same late harvest Riesling sitting at my desk! Wow! Talk about stellar customer service!! Thank you so much Chris and Handley Cellars. You have gained a loyal customer. I can't wait to visit this awesome winery again. When I want to enjoy a bottle of sunshine or need an excellent dessert wine for a gift, I know where to turn to!!! read more
9 years ago
We have arrived in the heart of Pinot country and to have Handley Cellars welcome us was a treat! Yelpers near and far congregated at this lovely host winery for Yelp's Grape Escape 2017 ~ Alexander Valley. They pulled out the red carpet for us Yelpers on a lovely Saturday (Nascar & Pride weekend). The weather was perfect with light winds. I'm still glad I brought my Yelp fan hahaha. This was an EPIC Grape Escape and Handley Cellars poured some delicious wines. As I'm sipping and mingling, the Pinot Noir stood out the most, and I thought to myself "duh" we're in Alexander Valley. This property is gorgeous and unique, sit in one of those chairs inside the tasting room. There's something about Alexander Valley wineries compared to Napa - unpretentious. Thank you for the stellar hospitality. It was a nice drive from Marin, not that far approximately two hours if one leaves at the crack of dawn. I love that we get to visit such wineries in California, it's just a drive away. 'Til we meet again ~ cheers and see you on Yelp! read more
Returned here after a previous visit a few months back and had some more great wines and conversation with the same lady who helped us the last time. The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay here are very good and for the quality the prices are reasonable. They have a nice little patio where they do the tastings and both times we were here we got to meet some nice dogs and cats (and their owners). This place is worth putting on your itinerary. read more
8 years ago
Hubby and I were in Anderson Valley for white wine weekend, and we decided to start our Sunday morning here at Handley. They were offering brunch with tastings for their open house that day, so we each got one small plate of eggs, bacon, and potatoes with our wine! We had a wonderful time. Beautiful scenery outside, great decor inside, friendly staff, and tasty wines! We ended up buying two bottles of wine to take home and enjoy - a Pinot Blanc and a Riesling. We were able to bring our dog inside the tasting room with us, but they also have outdoor seating that would be nice when the weather's warm! read more
2 years ago
Handley Cellars is the best winery I have ever been to. The wine is great, but what really makes it stand out to me is the experience. I have been here twice. The first time I thought I would be going in for just a free tasting, but the sommelier who helped us was so friendly she really made the experience. Not only did we get to do a tasting, but she brought us black berries from the farm to pair with the wine. We were there late in the day on a Sunday and since they were about to close she took us on a tour of the winery and the gardens/farm. The location is beautiful, especially around sunset. We were given some produce from the farm, and chocolates to take home. I ended up purchasing a membership which I never thought I would do, as well as two bottles of wine then and there. Recently I went back again, and this same person invited us to come see how wines are made. It meant we had to get up really early, but the experience was amazing. I learned how red wines basically need to be mixed more than once a day, and about how the process the grapes, and the yeast that are used, and more. I have never had such outstanding service and will be back to visit Handley many times in the future I am sure. Thanks again. read more
5 years ago
Handley is a must see destination for any lovers of true organic spirit. Lush astounding flavors. Elegant ambiance on a wisteria covered patio, overlooking the grape vineyards and old farm house. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
Wine, view and wine educator were all very enjoyable. Beautiful location and tasting room. Reasonably priced wines that were delicious. read more
9 years ago
Handley was our first stop on my very first visit to Anderson Valley as part of Yelp's Grape Escape. Perched on a knoll, this welcoming spot has a nice view out over rolling hills full of grapevines. We spent some time on their lovely outdoor patio, under a wisteria-covered trellis. The staff could not have been friendlier and treated us to Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir Rose, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. We enjoyed them all, and took home some Rose and Pinot to enjoy later. For wine club enthusiasts, they have a variety of flexible options. Check out their Brightlighter Selection for 4 bottles 3x a year. Fewer bottles per shipment spread out over more shipments helps keep home wine storage from overflowing. I hope more wineries start to do this! The tasting room staff also said membership grants you access to the rental house on the property as a bonus. We'll be back, and we'll bring friends. Great experience all around. read more
9 years ago
I brought a friend for her first visit to wine country in July. Our second stop was Handley Cellars where we met Stephen Anderson at the tasting bar. Stephen had a wonderfully pleasant manner and we could tell instantly that he really knew his wine. We stayed at the bar for about half an hour talking with another couple that was visiting from Orange County. We had a pleasant conversation with them and never felt rushed by the staff. After they left, we asked Stephen about the patio outside the tasting room. He suggested that we could finish the tasting on the patio. As it was such a beautiful day, we agreed that it would be a great idea. Stephen set up a flight of red wines for us on the patio and gave a brief, but thorough presentation on each of the wines. We noticed that a group of women came onto the patio with a picnic lunch. We asked Stephen about it and he said locals frequently brought lunch or snacks to accompany tastings. He invited us to do the same. Since my friend and I had been on the road for almost two weeks on an extended trip, we relished the idea of taking a break and enjoying lunch in such a picturesque setting. We hastily created some appetizers from the left overs in our ice chest to pair with the wine tasting. We were especially surprised by Stephen's laid back, no-pressure-to-buy-attitude. So, of course, we purchased a bottle of 2015 Chardonnay and enrolled in a membership. We would both highly recommend a stop at Handley Cellars! They were so good that they turned out to be our second, and final stop in wine country because my friend felt no one could have done any better. Oh, and the wine was excellent as well! read more
Thank you Handley Cellars for hosting the Yelp Elite kickoff. It was my first time visiting and I loved it. Being greeted with a beautiful Rose was such a treat. Elegant and clean it was the perfect accompaniment to the Ahi Poke bowls. My hubby enjoyed the mountain Pinot, I think he hid a few bottles in the trunk:-0 The tasting room is a nice relief from the heat. Loved the patio seating and live music! Overheard the wine club perks--dibs in the guesthouse? Wow! Can't wait to visit again. read more
10 years ago
I think that Handley Cellars has everything that one could possibly want in a Deep End Anderson Valley winery, plus a few little extras more, that make it a really unique and enjoyable stop. For one, the tastings are varied and complimentary, in keeping with the area's "non-Napa" sensibilities. For another, there is a full range of white and red wine, from Alsatian varietals to Burgundian reserve selections to red-fruited, robust wines from the Redwood Valley where warmer weather allows Zinfandel and Syrah to ripen. There is also a lovely garden with lavender landscaping and wisteria all around, inviting one to linger with an extra glass or bottle of wine, once the "hard work" of tasting is over. What you would not expect is the array of rare ethnographic artifacts and Asian art and sculpture, some of which is used to decorate a beautiful and relaxing side patio, where rattan chairs with plush cushions positively pull you into their orbit. The surrounding vines are not for display, but the source of many of the wines you will taste. Very outgoing staff guide you through the tasting process and fill in where needed details about the winemaking founder, Milla Handley, and her decades of experience creating award-winning wine in California. There is even a free EV charging station (during tasting room hours), in case you're coming here in your Tesla, Volt, or Nissan Leaf. This is definitely a good idea given the location, which is beautiful but remote, the perfect place for trying new wine. I really enjoyed the Pinot Gris and Sauvignon Blanc here, and these are generally not my favorite whites. The Anderson Valley and estate Pinot Noir are also excellent, and the Syrah and ZInfandel are quite interesting, too, a touch different than Sonoma-styled Zins or those from Lodi or the Sierra Foothills. Don't miss out on the Petite Sirah, either, which is distinctive and definitely a good choice for people who can't get enough of this wine. While I think it would be interesting to see what sort of wines Handley could make with Italian varietals, I suspect that their wide range of primarily French wines will please most customers. As with a stop at nearby Navarro, it's best here to budget 90 minutes to 2 hours to enjoy the tasting and then choose something you really liked to "revisit" in a glass or by the bottle. No need to feel rushed here! If you've never been to the Anderson Valley to taste wine before, I think that including Handley on your list is a great idea. Hope you'll feel the same way, too! read more
10 years ago
Handley Cellars is a beautiful property in the Deep End section of the Anderson Valley, with wines of depth, character, and clarity to match. Over 40 years of pioneering effort by the founder, Milla Handley (one of California's first female winemakers), have created a solid foundation upon which the next generation works, churning out small but exquisite batches of white, red, rose, and (once more) sparkling wines that are crowd-pleasing but also terroir-driven, and if you take the time to focus on the varietals that are in your glass (as opposed to just glugging them down), you'll notice some really subtle things. The Sauvignon Blanc here - it has ... real distinction. The Gewurztraminer - it tastes ... as good as it smells (which for a Gewurz is high praise, indeed). The estate Pinot Noir - it smells ... like crushed rose petals and tastes like crushed wild red berries mixed with a hint of wet autumn leaves and forest mushroom (which is about as good as Anderson Valley Pinots get, although the wines from nearby winemaker, Toulouse, are quite comparable as well ). The Pinot Gris - it ... wait, what's Pinot Gris, anyway (as opposed to the ubiquitous restaurant standby, Pinot Grigio)? Who knew this wine could be so delicious! The Zins and Syrahs, from Redwood Valley, are also excellent, but my heart belongs to their Anderson Valley wines, which seem to have the subtle, yet strong, aromas and flavors that make this place such a hidden gem in Californian wine country. Still! Maybe it's because this place is not within an easy drive to San Francisco. Maybe it's the winding roads from Cloverdale into Boonville and Philo. Who knows? But if you love Alsatian, German Rhine/Mosel, and Burgundian wines, you really ought to check out Handley. You will find very intelligent and accommodating people (Stephen, who has backgrounds in history and museum studies, was pouring wines the day we visited), complimentary tastings (we tasted 8 or 9 wines), and a beautiful array of outdoor and indoor locations to enjoy the wines. The gift shop section, along with the museum quality ethnographic objects from Africa, SE Asia, and the Pacific (Handley's father was a famous explorer in the 1920s and 30s), they all make this so much more than a tasting room. They make it a quintessential Mendocino wine country experience! Note: 6 bottle purchase comes with a 10% discount. The stainless steel insulated stemless glasses for sale at the gift shop are also great for road trip wine tastings. read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
Came here with my friends and absolutely loved it! Plenty of yummy wine, friendly staff, and worth the drive. Amazing windery, and definitely great for photos and memories. They have both red and white wine to chose from, and we made some purchases there. read more
8 years ago
5 years ago
It feels wrong to disagree with my Cheese monger/wine connoisseur friend, Jeff D. After all, HE'S in the biz; HE'S the expert. But Yelp is all about opinions and although I may not have the wine erudition of JD Cheese Monger Extraordinaire, Handley's vintages definitely don't send me--not even a little. They're just OK. Add to that the lady pouring for us on a Monday seemed...uh...out of sorts? She wasn't hostile, she just wasn't friendly. She was idling in neutral making her seem UNfriendly because most of the time the people pouring the wine seem like they're on mood elevators or perhaps they're just drinking a lot of their product. Generally speaking, you always get lots of strokes from wine folks. "Another taste of the Zin?" "Doesn't that just go down so well?" "Where you guys from?" Handley Lady didn't muster a smile or bust a question. I do hope she didn't have a recent death in the family. Perhaps a spat with the spouse? A tussle with the teenager? A twister with her sister? It really must bite to have a job where you're supposed to be cheery all the time. Everyone has a right to have a bad day or a bored with their job day. Our Handley server just stood out badly against the backdrop of "happy to be pouring our wines for you today" people we'd already met. The vistas from the tasting room are fabulous and the room is done in exotique. Lots of artwork and tchotchkes from Southeast Asia and elsewhere. And I do love the Handley basket weave logo which is not only on the labels but also on the front gate and here and there around the tasting room. There's a nice shaded picnic area, too. Not sure what their dog policy is but it might be a nice place to park your pup while you sip some vino. Maybe you'll like it better than I. 'Cause it's all about opinions. read more
9 years ago
12 years ago
Absolutely stand up people who went completely out of their way to help a couple of strangers out. Their wines were delightful too. I will never forget this place and can't wait to go back hopefully with my date :) read more
9 years ago
9 years ago
9 years ago
My husband and I had such a nice experience here. What a gorgeous location and tasting room. The wines were so very good and the staff helpful and charming. Gail was so good to us and really made our experience pleasant. After purchasing wine, we took a glass to the patio and relaxed there. This is a neat place! read more
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More info about Handley Cellars
3151 Hwy 128
Philo, CA 95466
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(707) 895-3876
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http://www.handleycellars.com
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What is the charge for wine tasting?
$20 waived with a 2 bottle purchase or if you join the wine club
