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

Located on the Napa side of the Carneros AVA, Hyde Vineyard is truly one of California’s grand cru Chardonnay vineyards and a site that parallels the quality and prestige of our single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon portfolio. The 2018 is lively and driven by vibrant acidity, featuring lemon cream, vanilla bean and juicy ripe apple notes on the nose. The palate combines brightness with richness with a roasted grain and hazelnut entry followed by hints of orange zest, nutmeg and cinnamon surrounding a core of silky stone fruit that carries through the long finish.

Aging

100% Barrel Fermentation; Full Malolactic; aged 11 months in 50% new French Oak