Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay 2022

VINTAGE NOTES
Late winter rains followed by ideal spring growing conditions set the stage for the 2021 vintage. Mild temperatures punctuated this drought year with only a few heat spikes during the summer months. Early flavor development in our white grapes, coupled with higher acidity levels, allowed us to begin harvest at the end of August with grapes showing exceptional balance and moderate brix levels. The ideal weather of 2021 and overall lower yields produced wines that offer exciting, complex aromatics and flavors.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD
One of the iconic vineyards in the Napa Valley, Hyde Vineyards was established in 1979 by Larry Hyde, an innovator at the time for planting a unique variety of clones and meticulously orienting the row direction to suit the rolling hills of the Carneros AVA. Cool afternoon breezes from the Petaluma Gap lead to a long growing season that produces grapes with exceptional character and depth of flavor. Alpha Omega’s Chardonnay comes from the oldest Chardonnay vineyard on the property, planted in 1978 to the Old Wente clone and replanted in 1994 with the same clone.

WINEMAKING
Our winemakers barrel fermented this Chardonnay in 100% French oak, 33% new and 67% neutral puncheons. The wine went through partial malolactic fermentation before being aged for 18 months “sur lies fines” in 33% new and 67% neutral French oak puncheons.

Sight: Medium yellow with hints of gold

Nose: Complex aromas of green apple, peach, melon, and baking spices accent hints of sea spray, minerality and lemon thyme.

Palate: Intricate layers of fruit and floral flavors mix with enticing notes of dried grains, wild grass, melon, brioche and gun smoke.