93points
2018 Hyde Chardonnay
Tasting Notes
Peach & apricot, lemon curd, honey & beeswax, white flower, mineral drive with a succulent finish
Wine Score
93
The 2018 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard comes wafting out of the glass with scents of lemon blossoms, honeydew melon, white peaches and marzipan with touches of nutmeg and lime leaves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-coating stone fruit and spice flavors with a gorgeous satiny texture and plenty of citrusy sparks, finishing satisfyingly savory.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
Description
Of all Bouchaine's Carneros Chardonnay's, this one is the most architectural each season, infused with the spice and aroma of the most new oak barrels. The fruit grows just a mile from Bouchaine's vineyard. The Hyde family is known for their expertise in growing cool-climate grape varietals in the Carneros region of the Napa Valley. They originally planted Hyde Vineyard in the 1970s. Their Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays are well known around the world and meticulously farmed, which gives the Bouchaine winemaking team the amazing opportunity to translate that incredible terroir into the bottle.
Growing Season
2018 delivered a late but incredible harvest. Beautiful weather during bloom allowed for a bounty of exceptional fruit. A cool, foggy summer with no heat events ensured slow even ripening, vibrant acidity and superb flavor development.
Vinification
Our Hyde Chardonnay is hand harvested at night and on the crush pad by sunrise. The fruit is then gently pressed and settled. We barrel ferment in premium French oak barrels with full lees inclusion and monthly stirring for added mouthfeel and complexity. This wine goes through partial malolactic fermentation to highlight the vibrant palate. Our favorite barrels are then blended together in early summer to showcase the best of Hyde Vineyard.
Tech Sheet
