HdV Chardonnay

The HdV Chardonnay is the flagship wine, showcasing the legendary terroir of Hyde Vineyard. Often described as 'Burgundian' in style, the Chardonnay is distinct from the traditional 'California' style. This wine balances the power of Napa Valley with the restraint, finesse and energy of Burgundy. Two selections of mature Hyde Chardonnay vines build its frame: the small clusters of Wente bring out notes of citrus blossoms, yellow apple, and a touch of gunpowder while enhancing the complex mineral and savory characters. The Calera selection contributes balance, with fresh aromas of pear, peach blossom, citrus, and vibrant acidity.

Aged 14 months on fine lees in 20% new Francois Freres French oak barrels, foudres and concrete eggs. Bottle unfined and unfiltered. This wine will age gracefully for over 20+ years.

Winemaker notes

Aromas of Golden Delicious apple and honeysuckle are balanced by hints of nutmeg, saline and white pepper. Subtle herbal tones of lemon verbena lend to a “nervy” edge of this wine that cuts through the palate. Flavors of apricot and mango round out the brighter tones of lime and other bright citrus. The lean texture and a tension in the wine promises to reward those that are able to cellar. -Guillame Boudet, Winemaker-

2016

Wine Advocate 95+: Chalky at first, the 2016 Chardonnay takes its time to reveal citrus blossoms, lime peel, crushed stone, apricots and pure lemon and apple fruit with dusty, minerally nuances. The palate walks a wonderful line of pure, ripe fruits and fresh citrusy and rocky accents. It has a silky texture, tangy lift and a very long, nuanced finish. This has the stuffing and structure to be very long lived.

James Suckling 95: This is very dense and serious with freshness and powerful acidity that gives it intensity and focus. Goes on and on with so much floral and sliced-lime flavor and hints of white flowers, pear blossom and minerals. So beautiful to drink now, but will improve with age.

2019

Wine Advocate 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.

James Suckling 96: Honeysuckle, oyster-shell and apple-pie aromas. Pears and lime sherbet, too. Flinty. Full-bodied, layered and integrated with fine phenolics. Some matchbox character comes through. Stemmy and spicy at the end from whole-cluster pressing. Wente and Calera clones.

Vinous 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.

2020

James Suckling 96: Lots of crushed stone, cement, lemon, matchstick, and flint. Full-bodied but so tight, with polished texture. Tangy and edgy with a brightness. 60% Wente and 40% Calera clones. Old vines from 1940 and 1970s. Drink or hold.

Vinous 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.