On a typical Carneros morning, the fog lingers in Hyde Vineyards, one of the most hallowed sites for grape-growing in all of California. But what truly stands out when we walk the Hyde property is the airy sea breezes off San Pablo Bay, where you smell the mix of sea salt and garrique. It’s an extraordinary feeling that we consistently and clearly expressed in the salinity characteristics of our Hyde Chardonnay.
Hyde Vineyards is a majestic and impressive 200-acre vineyard situated in Napa County, first cultivated in 1979. Managed by Larry Hyde and his son Chris, who is about to take over the business. Chris, who could carry a large Napa ego, is the farthest from it. Hyde’s are very serious about paying attention to the details and striving for excellence: tiny berries, tiny clusters, great acidity. But every time they replant a section, they adapt to the site better by replacing blocks northeast by southwest in the same direction of the prevailing winds.
Chardonnay from Hyde Vineyard is highly sought-after and has won multiple accolades. It is a highly collectible vineyard to follow. Noteworthy labels include Aubert, HDV, Kistler, Ramey, Mira, Patz & Hall, Ram’s Gate, Saxon Brown, Bouchaine, Massican, and Auteur.
We encourage you to compare a few extraordinary Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay selections.
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Hyde Vineyards
County: Napa
Appellations: Carneros; Napa Valley
Year first planted: 1979
Total acres planted: 200
Chardonnay acres: 113
Primary Chardonnay clones: Hyde Wente; Hyde San Benito; Musque
Soil types: Haire; clay loam
Sustainable and organic practices
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Wine Spectator’s California’s Best Chardonnay Vineyards Article Link
94 | Wine Enthusiast