Fall Release Hyde Vineyard Clare Chardonnay
2006

Winemaker’s Notes

Our third bottling from the renowned and world class Hyde Vineyard is my favorite yet and makes a strong play for wine of the vintage in 2006. The combination of experienced and precise, yet naturally attuned farming and a long cool growing season has resulted in an offering that brilliantly captures the essence of this wonderful site. The flavors beautifully express the glory of our Californian sunshine, yet the wine’s structure tempers that richness to balance the great depth and concentration that is present with a shimmering and persistent acid-driven finish that tangibly brings the wine together. Currently the wine holds its substantial power in reserve but one feels its presence lurking in the background, ready to unfold with time in the bottle. Of all our 2006 Chardonnays this is the one to set aside for 3 to 5 years to allow time for the wine’s defining structure to mellow and harmonize with the vineyard’s natural extract.

Youthful green-yellow color. Intense musky, stony nose leads to richer baked apple and fresh bread aromas with an intriguing edge of fresh mint. Great richness on the entry with layered pear, meyer lemon and white peach flavors. Youthfully taut and penetrating mouthfeel that is structured and long, yet powerful and concentrated. Finishes with a brisk flash of sea salt freshness. Gently decant immediately prior to serving to capture the wine’s building richness and drink within 8 years. Serve no cooler than 55 degrees.

Andy Smith