Winemaker Notes
The wine has a dark ruby hue and shows a complex nose of intense floral and red fruit aromas. Scents of vanilla and sweet spices add up to the mix in a unique bouquet. The experience continues in the palate with soft and elegant tannins accompanied by a deep and dense middle leading to layers of fruit, spices and flowers. The wine is balanced and shows a unique definition of flavors and persistence on the finish. It reminisces of a young Côte-Rotie or Saint Joseph with the opulent but restrained fruit of Hyde Vineyard. Our 2006 HdV can be enjoyed now after an hour of decanting and will certainly age well for 6 to 10 years.
Marked by an unmistakable deep purple hue and savory aromatics, Syrah makes an intense, powerful and often age-worthy red. Native to the Northern Rhône, Syrah achieves its maximum potential in the steep village of Hermitage and plays an important component in the Red Rhône Blends of the south, adding color and structure to Grenache and Mourvèdre. Syrah is the most widely planted grape of Australia and is important in California and Washington. Sommelier Secret—Such a synergy these three create together, the Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre trio often takes on the shorthand term, “GSM.”
Known for elegant wines that combine power and finesse, Carneros is set in the rolling hills that straddle the southernmost parts of both Sonoma and Napa counties. The cooling winds from the abutting San Pablo Bay, combined with lots of midday California sunshine, create an ideal environment for producing wines with a perfect balance of crisp acidity and well-ripened fruit.
This cooler pocket of California lends itself to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah. Carneros is an important source of sparkling wines made in the style of Champagne as well.