This could, very well, be one of the best joint ventures for Chardonnay anywhere in the world! HDV wines combine the exquisite and highly sought-after vineyards of Larry Hyde, and the visionary quest for perfection of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti's Aubert de Villaine. Using sustainable farming practices, and planting clones suited to the soil have given the Hyde vineyard a reputation that cannot be outdone. As for Aubert, his family's pursuit for perfection has given them one of the best reputations in the wine world. Together, these families have comprised a Chardonnay whose style is a perfect balance between California richness and Burgundian minerality.
ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE 96 POINTS - "The 2019 Chardonnay comes from vines in the Hyde Vineyard that are 25-40 years old and planted to Wente (60%) and Calera (40%) selections. Aged in about 15% new French oak, the nose is perfumed and pure, with scents of quince, apricot, beeswax, river stone and citrus blossoms. The palate offers a compelling dynamic of satiny, expansive fruits and fresh, focused acidity, and it has a long, nuanced finish. It will continue to unwind in bottle over the next 2-3 years and gain savory complexity over the next decade."
ANTONIO GALLONI 93 POINTS - "The 2019 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is bright and focused. This is an especially taut expression of Hyde, where most Chardonnays are richer. I would be shocked if anyone picks earlier here. Bright floral and citrus nuances all run through this nervy, taut Chardonnay. A touch of reduction lingers on the finish. I would prefer to see a bit more flesh, but this is tasty just the same."
ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE 96 POINTS - "The 2019 Chardonnay comes from vines in the Hyde Vineyard that are 25-40 years old and planted to Wente (60%) and Calera (40%) selections. Aged in about 15% new French oak, the nose is perfumed and pure, with scents of quince, apricot, beeswax, river stone and citrus blossoms. The palate offers a compelling dynamic of satiny, expansive fruits and fresh, focused acidity, and it has a long, nuanced finish. It will continue to unwind in bottle over the next 2-3 years and gain savory complexity over the next decade."
ANTONIO GALLONI 93 POINTS - "The 2019 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard is bright and focused. This is an especially taut expression of Hyde, where most Chardonnays are richer. I would be shocked if anyone picks earlier here. Bright floral and citrus nuances all run through this nervy, taut Chardonnay. A touch of reduction lingers on the finish. I would prefer to see a bit more flesh, but this is tasty just the same."
