Winemaker Notes
The Ygnacia Pinot Noir is 100% Hyde Vineyard fruit and is a thrilling expression of Carneros Pinot Noir. The third release from the vineyard, the 2015 Ygnacia is rich in color and aroma with black cherry, red raspberry and violet notes. Balanced and textured with silky tannins, this wine is built to a multi-dimensional palate of ripe berries, cocoa nib, savory spice and crushed stone.The drought cycle that started in 2012 continued in 2015, as a result, we experienced a warm dry winter and an early start of the vegetative cycle with bud break in February. In May, unseasonably cool weather caused a poor set, resulting in low yields and a high concentrated fruit due to millerandage; small, seedless berries amid a few normal berries, creating the intensity and complexity juice. The summer was hot overall for Hyde Vineyard. Thanks to a cool few days in the early days of August, the growing season was extended a few days to reach great maturity. The wines of 2015 show the concentration of the vintage but are also vivacious and complexity.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A very fresh and vivid pinot with so much raspberry and blue fruit character. Stone and cement undertones. Blood oranges and sea shell, too. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. A structured and flavorful red. Needs two or three years to come together.
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Wine Spectator
This has a big, juicy feel, with griotte, plum and cherry paste flavors that have melded nicely, while a backdrop of dried anise, incense and savory details provide nice contrast. Nice energy throughout. Drink now
As early as the 1970s Carneros became known as a source of terrific Pinot Noir, and was one of the first California regions to gain such a reputation. The combination of sunny days, cooling fog and thin clay soils are tailor-made for the variety. Another factor in Pinot Noir’s prominent place here is vintners’ willingness to experiment widely. The history of the grape in Carneros is marked by continuous research into clonal variations, viticultural techniques and site selection. Careful evaluation over time has revealed a signature flavor profile as well. Complex aromas and flavors of cherry, red berry, spice, earth and cola appear time and again in Carneros Pinot Noir. To this day the appellation remains one of California’s standard bearers for the variety.