Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley – 2018
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Vineyard Profile
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Subterranean: Ancient terraces and alluvial fans
- Vineyards: Hyde Vineyard, at the eastern edge of Los Carneros District
- Vineyard Owner: Mr. and Mrs. Aubert de Villaine Mr. and Mrs. Laurence W. Hyde Mr. and Mrs. Richard E. Hyde III
- Appellation: Los Carneros, Napa Valley
- Size: 8.64 acres
- Vine Age: 27 to 39 years
- Clones: “Old Wente” and Calera
- Soil: Haire Loam Clay
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Vintage Report
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February saw abundant rains, followed by lots of filtered light in spring and early summer. Both bud break and flowering occurred a bit late, but under ideal weather conditions, creating plentiful and even fruit set. Summer brought generous sun during the day and cooler marine influences, virtually uninterrupted by major heat spikes. The relatively mild summer followed by extended fall sunshine and moderate heat created near ideal conditions for the fruit to accumulate flavor complexity with gradual increases in sugar levels.
- Harvest Date(s): September 5 - 27
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Vinification
- Malolactic: Yes
- Barrel Aging: 11 months in French oak; 80% barrels (20% new) and 20% foudre
- Bottled: November 13, 2019; unfined and unfiltered
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Technical Information
- Alcohol: 13.6%
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Tasting Notes
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“Freshness and brightness take center stage in this precise, structured wine. Aromas of jasmine and lime blossom pair with Meyer lemon and green apple, which lead to hints of baking spices and toasted brioche. The palate bursts with vibrant acidity and mouthcoating textures, giving way to a lingering mineral-driven finish. The focus and tension of this wine promises aging for years to come.” — Guillame Boudet, Winemaker
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Images
Reviews
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Hyde de Villaine Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley — 2018 – Wine Spectator – 93 Points
Elegantly fruity, with tropical nuances to the rich white fruit and spice flavors that are well-structured. Tangerine hints midpalate lead to a spicy finish that offers brioche accents.
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Hyde de Villaine Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley – 2018 – James Suckling – 98 Points
Opulent aromas of cooked apple, lemon rind, light praline and stone. Full-bodied with linear and lively acidity that runs through the wine. Energetic and bright with tightness and structure. Steely.
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Hyde de Villaine Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley – 2018 – Vinous – 94 Points
Silky and creamy, with gorgeous texture, the Hyde shows all of the richness this site is known for yet retains terrific energy and verve as well. Bright floral and mineral accents perk up the pear, lemon confit and light tropical fruit.