2016 Hammell Wine Alliance True Believer Reserve

Hammell Wine Alliance is a new venture from Chris Hammell, the renowned vineyard manager of Bien Nacido, one of California’s most prestigious vineyards. The Santa Maria Valley Bien Nacido vineyard is the source for grapes used by dozens of outstanding producers, including Sine Qua Non. Hammell Wine Alliance is Chris Hammell’s own label, and he is running the operation with his family and friends. His wines come from a newly planted parcel next door to Bien Nacido, and the focus is on Rhone-style blends. The wines so far released have been well reviewed. Wine Advocate called the 2011 debut wine a “killer effort” and rated it at 94 pts.

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.