Winemaker's Notes
This wine juxtaposes my favorite parts of California barrel fermented Chardonnay and old-world restraint, acidity and lift. Left in barrel nearly 2 full years, the yeast continued to ‘give back’ to the wine in the form of texture, nuance of non-fruit elements, continuity and persistence.
Lemon curd, a tiny hint of lime, golden delicious apple with a wee dram of the smell of the first rain of the fall on the sidewalk. A mouthwatering entry and surprising viscosity for the acidity level and aromatic cues, the oak and lees have integrated into a savory, non-fruit counterpoint to the initial fruit elements on the aromas. It’s about as seamless as they get just a couple months after bottling. I think 2018 is a fantastic vintage for this variety in Sonoma County in general.
Judi Scherrer –
California Grapevine – January 2021
Medium-light golden yellow; attractive, fragrant, baked apple, lemon, and stone fruit aroma with spicy and tropical notes, and a hint of crème brulée; medium to medium full body; citrus and apple flavors with nice acid balance and pleasing richness in the slightly creamy mouthfeel; lingering aftertaste. Very highly recommended. My Score: 91/100 Nick Ponomareoff
Judi Scherrer –
International Wine Review – November 2021
Sumptuous nose–orange blossom, lemon meringue, crisp apple. This is an impressive, elegant and superbly balanced wine with phenolically ripe fruit on a vibrant, creamy palate. Outstanding, dense, long finish. Sourced from a low vigor, tightly spaced vineyard planted in 1993 to the Hyde Wente selection. Fermented with ambient yeast, natural malo, in 40% new French oak. 94 points. Don Winkler