Dane Cellars was founded by Bart Hansen in 2007. Bart had previously worked at Kenwood as a Cellarmaster and Benziger as part of the winemaking team. Dane Cellars is named for Bart’s son. Dane Cellars makes a variety of wines including several single vineyard Zins, a Chenin Blanc and a Cabernet Sauvignon.
Bart recently sent me some of his new releases to sample.
2018 Dane Cellars Chenin Blanc Buddah’s Dharma Vineyard – From vines planted in 1944. Golden in color. Just a little cloudy. Pretty nose of pears, citrus and flowers. Medium body with medium acidity. Round and supple on the palate. Apricot, lemon oil, honey and spice on the palate. Medium length on the finish. Delightful Chenin Blanc. Lots to like here. Best over the next 2-3 years. $30 at the winery. My rating: 92 points.
2017 Dane Cellars Zinfandel Gopher Run Vineyard – Purple in color. 15.2% ABV. Fantastic nose of red and black fruits, peach and pepper. Full bodied with mouth watering acidity. Silky and plush with plenty of jammy fruits. Great structure and well balanced. Black cherry, raspberry liqueur, anise and pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Impressive Zinfandel. Best over the next 4-6 years. $38 at the winery. My rating: 93 points.
2018 Dane Cellars Zinfandel Los Chamizal Vineyard – Purple in color. 15.2% ABV. Sublime nose of black fruits, licorice and pepper. Medium to full bodied with perfect acidity. Plush, silky and exceptionally well balanced. Blackberry, black raspberry, cocoa and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Really elegant Zinfandel with great purity of fruit. Best over the next 3-5 years. $40 at the winery. My rating: 94 points.
This was my introduction to Dane Cellars and the wines were impressive. The best way to obtain the wines is via the wine club or winery mailing list. I look forward to following these wines in the years to come.