HdV Chardonnay

2020

AG 93: The 2020 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard shows greater focus and tension than the Debut, along with the natural richness that is so characteristic of this site. Lemon confit, honeysuckle, white flowers and a kiss of French oak all grace this attractive Chardonnay from Hyde De Villaine. There's real depth and intensity here.

2019

AG 93: The 2019 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is bright and focused. This is an especially taut expression of Hyde, where most Chardonnays are richer. I would be shocked if anyone picks earlier here. Bright floral and citrus nuances all run through this nervy, taut Chardonnay. A touch of reduction lingers on the finish. I would prefer to see a bit more flesh, but this is tasty just the same.

WA 96: The 2019 Chardonnay comes from vines in the Hyde Vineyard that are 25-40 years old and planted to Wente (60%) and Calera (40%) selections. Aged in about 15% new French oak, the nose is perfumed and pure, with scents of quince, apricot, beeswax, river stone and citrus blossoms. The palate offers a compelling dynamic of satiny, expansive fruits and fresh, focused acidity, and it has a long, nuanced finish. It will continue to unwind in bottle over the next 2-3 years and gain savory complexity over the next decade.