750 ml - Standard Bottle

Rhys Vineyards was founded in 2001 by Kevin Harvey with the ambition of producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from California's coolest coastal vineyards. Based in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Rhys quickly gained a reputation for meticulous site selection, organic farming and low-intervention winemaking. The estate is recognised as one of California's leading producers of Burgundian varieties, with vineyards planted on fractured shale and limestone soils that emphasise freshness, minerality and longevity.

The Alesia label represents Rhys' appellation and village-level wines. Rather than focusing on a single vineyard, Alesia wines are crafted to showcase regional character while maintaining the precision and elegance associated with Rhys. The 2018 Anderson Valley Chardonnay is sourced entirely from the estate's Bearwallow Vineyard, located in one of California's coolest growing regions, where Pacific influences preserve acidity and aromatic purity.

Made from 100% Chardonnay, the 2018 Alesia Anderson Valley Chardonnay is fermented and aged in French oak with restrained use of new barrels, allowing the vineyard's character to take centre stage. The cool 2018 growing season produced a wine of exceptional balance, combining concentration with vibrant acidity.

The style is refined and mineral-driven rather than overtly rich. Aromas of green apple, pear, white flowers and citrus are complemented by hints of honeysuckle, wet stone and subtle oak. The palate is bright and focused, with chalky minerality, crisp acidity and a long, saline finish. Although approachable in its youth, the wine possesses the structure to develop additional complexity over several years.

" An exceptionally floral and fragrant vintage... beams from the glass with honeysuckle, white blossom and honeyed orchard fruit aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with great finesse, leading to a bright, chalky, citrus-tinged finish." -- Wine Advocate

" Bright acids give the orchard fruit, citrus confit and floral notes a good bit of energy... Light tropical accents develop with air, rounding out the finish nicely. " -- Vinous

" Chablis-like notes of lemon curd, salty, chalky minerality, crushed citrus and sappy flowers... a charming, fleshy, ready-to-drink beauty. " -- Jeb Dunnuck