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.