Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Normally I see more stylistic differences between the Hudson and Hyde Chardonnays, but in 2008, they are more similar than usual. The 2008 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard reveals a fragrant bouquet of caramelized citrus, tropical fruits and subtle smoke as well as medium to full-bodied flavors, good acidity and a crisp mouthfeel. Drink it over the next 4-6 years.
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Connoisseurs' Guide
Medium-light golden yellow color; attractive, forward, intense, pear and baked apple aroma with hints of citrus, butterscotch, and tropical fruit; full body; forward, rich, crisp, citrusy, green apple flavors with good depth and showing some complexity; well balanced and firmly structured; lingering aftertaste. Fruit and oak are well proportioned and nicely balanced. Very highly recommended.
One of the most popular and versatile white wine grapes, Chardonnay offers a wide range of flavors and styles depending on where it is grown and how it is made. While it tends to flourish in most environments, Chardonnay from its Burgundian homeland produces some of the most remarkable and longest lived examples. California produces both oaky, buttery styles and leaner, European-inspired wines. Somm Secret—The Burgundian subregion of Chablis, while typically using older oak barrels, produces a bright style similar to the unoaked style. Anyone who doesn't like oaky Chardonnay would likely enjoy Chablis.
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.