Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley – 2009
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Vineyard Profile
- Size: 9.42 acres
- Vine Age: 30-plus years
- Soil: Shallow loam over clay hardpan
- Exposure: South by southeast
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Vintage Report
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Entering the third year of a drought, the 2009 winter was dry at Hyde Vineyard until unexpected rains in early spring. Budbreak was later than usual, avoiding any risk of frost damage. Continuously mild weather created a long, slow ripening vintage, leading to wines of balance and deft concentration.
- Harvest Date(s): September 5, 8, 9, 11 and 18
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Vinification
- Fermentation: In 10-year-old wooden “foudre” and 60-gallon barrels, 20% new, all François Frères
- Malolactic: 100%
- Aging: 12 months in French oak (François Frères), 20% new, followed by 3 months in stainless and 14 months in bottle
- Bottled: December 6, 2010
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Technical Information
- Production (in cases): 1,916 cases
- Production Case Pack: 12/750ml
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Tasting Notes
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2009 Hyde de Villaine Chardonnay highlights why Hyde Vineyard is the elite Chardonnay site in California. The wine is rich and complex, while exuding finesse and elegance. Intense aromas of fresh fig and stone fruit develop over time in the glass. The complexity relies on an intricate evolution of spice, apricot and pear notes that leads to a persistent finish. Reminiscent of grand cru Burgundy, this wine will age gracefully for two decades.
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Images
Reviews
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Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley – 2009 – 94 points – The Tasting Panel
“Deep gold color; elegant and creamy with a firm core of bright acidity; smooth, bright and fresh with finesse and lovely Burgundian style; long and sensual – a complete package.”
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Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley – 2009 – 94 points – The Wine Advocate
“All the best elements of the vintage and house style come together in HdV’s 2009 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard…The 2009 impresses for its length, persistence and spherical finish. This is a great showing from HdV.”
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Chardonnay, Hyde Vineyard, Carneros, Napa Valley – 2009
The wine is rich and complex, while exuding finesse and elegance. Intense aromas of fresh fig and stone fruit develop over time in the glass. The complexity relies on an evolution of spice, apricot and pear notes that leads to a persistent finish.