This Chardonnay is from vineyard blocks planted for us in 1997 and 1999 using the famous “Hyde-Wente” selection. The 2023 demonstrates why this vineyard is considered a New World Grand Cru site. Highly intense aromas of pear, wet rock minerality and toasted almond meet crystalline acidity that flows around the highly complex, concentrated palate. Brightness of fruit characterizes a long, succulent finish.
The 2023 vintage began with replenishing rains during the winter and spring months. This was a welcome event for growers since the previous three years saw varying degrees of drought. Spring followed with staggered budbreak and flowering, then a cool June. Warm summer days followed and sized up the berries, but cool weather returned in September, with average highs not exceeding 80 degrees F. This delayed harvest by 3-4 weeks. The tension was high with the impending risk of late season botrytis. However, the weather held, and the resulting crop delivered the poise expected from a gradual, cool vintage.
Purchased by Larry Hyde in 1979 and planted two years later, this renowned property is cultivated as 44 distinct blocks. The Hyde-Wente selection used for this Chardonnay is planted on the best soils at the site, ones characterized by very low vigor and featuring extremely well-drained Haire series, sandy loam, and clay loam, which lower the yields even more than usual for this small-berried clone.
Type:
White
Blend:
100% Chardonnay
Aging:
100% Burgundian French oak barrels; (24% new; 76% 1-2-year old)
Alcohol:
14.5%
Fermentation:
100% indigenous yeast fermentations; 100% malo-lactic fermentation in barrel
Search
Search this site for your favorite wines.
Stay in touch.
Sign up for our email list to be the first to hear about the latest events, promotions, and wine releases.
