2021 HdV Chardonnay
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Tasting notes
Fermented and aged in foudres, concrete eggs and 15% new oak for 18 months. Mid gold. Light nose with strong herbal notes. Jewel-bright fruit. Delicate and the complete antithesis to stereotypical California Chardonnay. Dry end. (JR)
Critic scores
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Erin Brooks, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The wine blooms with pear blossoms, lemons, lime zest, tangerines, lemon blossoms, then creamy but delicate flavors of butter, vanilla bean, lemon curd, chalky minerals and salinity. Medium- to full-bodied, it finishes long and lingering. It was the Hyde Vineyard’s smallest harvest in many years, but the mix of 70% Wente clone and 30% Calera clone grapes from 30- to 42-year-old vines brings a wonderful intensity. Best from 2028.
The 2021 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyards is detailed and mineral driven, with aromas of saline, green pear, yellow apples, crème fraîche, almonds and lemon blossom. The light-bodied palate is precise and shimmery, balancing perfumed flavors with firm acidity, and it has a long, gently creamy finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in the cellar.
The 2021 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is fabulous. Rich and dramatic, with tremendous textural intensity, the 2021 possesses remarkable depth. Tangerine oil, mint, white flowers, honey and hazelnut are all amplified. This mind-blowing, dynamic Chardonnay is an absolute stunner. Give it a year or two to come together.