We’re on a philosophical journey toward making the best wine. My dad’s quest has been for greater knowledge and the best plant material for this place—a search for the truth. CHRIS HYDE
Vineyard: This vineyard is an extension of the man, Larry Hyde. For three decades he has had an intimate relationship with each vine in his vineyard, and in the process has built an international reputation as one of the best growers in the world. His research papers on plant (clonal material) are reference points for our industry. He is a humble man, very dry of wit, has a good appetite for excellent food and wine, and likes the company of sincere winemakers and growers.
We are in a small section of the vineyard in the rolling hills of Carneros, planted to what he calls his ‘Small Cluster Clone.’ I stood in line for these grapes for 14 years, and I think you will agree the wait was well worth it. Not much crop from these vines, but the wines are stunning. In 2019 we added another small block of Calera Clone Chardonnay, which lends an added dimension to our Hyde bottlings.
Winemaking: Very Burgundian in style. Barrel fermented in small French cooperage, favoring premium three-year air-dried barrels. There is only about 20% new oak on this vineyard, and it is made up mostly of the cooperage Damy, with a little Ermitage. Fermentations begin with native yeast strains for primary and secondary, and the wines receive the minimal amount of handling through the aging period. Bottled unfined, unfiltered; we work hard to bring an honest and true expression of the vineyard to you.
Winemaker’s Tasting Notes: The 2022 Hyde Vineyard chardonnay has spectacular focus and tension in addition to an amazing mouthfeel and texture. This vintage continues to show the increasing influence of the Calera clone selection with its more intense/oily texture. As always the Hyde is extremely aromatic and lifted, likely from the older vine Wente selections influence. Notes of Meyer lemon, Asian pear, and Acacia flowers immediately grab your attention. This wine is focused, with a big presence, with the palate contributing brioche, camomile, honey and caramel. Perhaps the longest lived or most cellar worthy Hyde to date, this is very drinkable now but a few hours of being open and given a chance to really blossom is a great plan before consumption.
Vintage: Winemaker Jeff Ames and Tor Kenward have collectively witnessed over 70 harvests, and cannot compare 2022 to any of them. Some winemakers said it was four vintages in one, with the wild swings in temperature, small crop, and small picking windows made it one we call “ a winemaker’s year”. Those who nailed the right picking windows made exceptional wines. In particular, our 8 blocks in Beckstoffer To Kalon have never looked better. A winemaker’s and wine grower’s year. Experience made all the difference.
