1998 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The sensational 1998 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard emerges from a block of vines that used to be sold to the Mondavis for their reserve Chardonnay. Roasted hazelnut, espresso, zesty tropical fruit, mineral, and buttery aromas and flavors are accompanied by a full-bodied, powerful, gorgeously pure and well-delineated wine. Made from old Chardonnay vines, it should drink well for 5-7 years, possibly longer. (release date 11/00) Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Pale green-tinged color. Musky, leesy aromas of lime, ginger and iodine; showed more exotic pineapple and dried fruit notes as it opened in the glass. The palate detonates with sweet, penetrating, creamy fruit of extraordinary depth. As powerful as this is, it conveys an impression of poise. The explosive, endless finish combines palate-saturating fruit and dusty mineral notes. This is surely the greatest young chardonnay I've tasted in my dining room so far this year.
About the producer
Kistler’s Chardonnays are some of the world’s most sought-after. This cult Californian producer crafts small volumes of exceptional, rich and generous, yet mineral and precise wines. With almost the entire production sold directly to their mailing list, the wines are also incredibly hard to find.