Hyde de Villaine Hyde Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay 2019 750ml 96JS 96WA

Seductive aromas of spiced Bosque pear, lemon zest, and honeycomb are accented by chamomile blossoms and a hint of fresh pie crust. A perfectly balanced combination of yuzu and white peach lead into the delicate essence of vanilla and clove. Precise acidity and flinty minerality are juxtaposed by the unctuous texture, adding unparalleled length to the finish. The wine is elegantly refined yet shows stern focus; a promise of aging over the next decade.
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Hyde de Villaine is a family venture between the Hyde family of Napa Valley and the de Villaine family of Burgundy.  Aubert de Villaine, Co-Director of Domaine de la Romanée- Conti, married Larry Hyde’s cousin, Pamela (nee Fairbanks), bringing the two families together. Hyde de Villaine wines represent the shared histories and winemaking philosophies of these families and one iconic single-vineyard. From inception, Hyde de Villaine has had one mandate, create wines that capture the true essence of the vineyard and deliver it to the glass each vintage...no exceptions. The team believes that the best and most respectful winemaking is done prior to harvest in the vineyard. They spend countless hours working year-round with the vines to ensure that only the best quality fruit arrives at the winery. The team never aspires to match a style or recipe; they react to the unique aspects of each vintage and block. All wines are unfined and unfiltered.
HARVEST REPORT: In 2018, February saw abundant rains, followed by lots of filtered light in spring and early summer. Both bud break and flowering occurred a bit late, but under ideal weather conditions, creating plentiful and even fruit set. Summer brought generous sun during the day and cooler marine influences, virtually uninterrupted by major heat spikes. The relatively mild summer followed by extended fall sunshine and moderate heat created near-ideal conditions for the fruit to accumulate flavor complexity with gradual increases in sugar levels.

Wine Spectator 94 Points | Powerfully structured, with ripe citrus accents to the fresh white fruit and spice flavors, supported by ample acidity. Hints of tropical fruit emerge midpalate, leading to a finish that shows savory richness. Best from 2022 through 2027.Wine Advocate 94 points The 2017 Chardonnay opens with pure notes of poached pears, white peach, quince and apple pie plus notions of citrus blossoms, smoke, toast and honeyed hints in the undercurrent—what a superb perfume! The palate is still youthfully wound, offering energetic citrus and mineral-laced fruits, tangy, vibrant and bright and finishing very long and nuanced. -- Erin Brooks

James Suckling 96 Points | Wonderful, juicy white with cooked pineapple, praline and biscuit. Some apricots. Full-bodied, tangy and edgy with lots of energetic fruit. Focused and lively. Minerality is the word. Drink or hold.

Vinous 94 Points | The 2017 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is a blend of Calera and Wente clones, which, along with the decision to pick early, yields a Chardonnay with distinctly salty, saline notes that give the wine energy, tension and persistence. Orchard fruit, white flowers, mint and white pepper add striking aromatic top notes. The 2017 is quiet understated, but it is also just sublime. The 2017 spent 12 months in oak (15% new) and about four months in tank prior to bottling. It is pure class. -- -- Antonio Galloni