Growing Conditions

The 200-acre Hyde Vineyard, considered one of California’s Grand Cru vineyards, includes one of the oldest blocks of Chardonnay grapes. Carneros has always been considered prime land for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The shallower soil and cooler climates of Carneros result in smaller vines and grapes that turn into bright, ethereal wines.

2018 was truly a winemakers’ vintage, and the quality of the resulting wines presents itself in bottle. Generous rainfall in February led to a late budbreak and extended flowering period. Beautiful and mild weather throughout spring and summer made for a healthy crop load. With no major heat spikes or weather events in the fall, winemakers were able to patiently wait to pick at optimal fruit ripeness.

Winemaking

Amici’s Hyde Pinot Noir is rich in color and aroma with intense dark plum and violet flowers and notes of roasted cocoa and deep lavender. Elegant and textured with silky and velvet tannins and a palate of bright berries, crushed stones, fresh cocoa, ending with a finish of dark spice, soy, and young black tea. The 2018 is dynamic and will age elegantly, but certainly holds power right now.

Aging

13 months; 100% French Oak; 35% New