2016 Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay

Winemaker Notes:

#7 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2019

Vine selection for our Hyde Vineyard Chardonnays are predominantly old Wente with some Robert Young—itself a Wente selection. The Wente produces a classic, Burgundian-style wine without the tropical fruit tones of some California Chardonnays. Hyde Vineyard wines often seem charming and feminine, with high natural acidity playing a prominent role. Burgundian-style wine without the tropical fruit tones of some California Chardonnays. Hyde Vineyard wines often seem charming and feminine, with high natural acidity playing a prominent role.

Critical Acclaim:

“95 points, #7 Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines 2019

“Precise and powerfully structured, with intense Asian pear, apple and ripe citrus flavors that feature rich, savory notes. Displays concentrated minerality on the spicy and textured finish. Should blossom in the cellar. Best from 2021 through 2025.” – Wine Spectator

“95 points.

“This producer’s blocks were planted in 1991 and 1997 to field selections of both Wente and Robert Young clones. Juicy, tight and tension-filled, it is both complex and high-toned in approach, with looming acidity that freshens in tart lemon-peel, grapefruit and tangerine flavors—a classic and elegant wine.” – Wine Enthusiast

“94 points.

“From a vineyard in Carneros, the 2016 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard excels on its purity and finesse. Notes of white flowers, lemon zest, and tart pineapple all flow to a medium to full-bodied Chardonnay that’s classic Ramey with its bright, crisp acidity, good concentration, and balanced style. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years.” – Jeb Dunnuck

“93+ points.

“The 2016 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard comes from blocks of the Hyde vineyard planted in 1991 and 1997. Grapes are fermented in barrel with bâtonnage, then aged in 22% new French oak for 20 months. It has a wonderfully mineral-driven nose of pulverized stone with notions of Greek yogurt, lime peel and spring blossoms plus a soft peachy undertone and toasty suggestion. The palate is medium to full-bodied with flavor layers flooding the mouth: ripe citrus, cream and roasted almonds, finishing long, lively and minerally with great juicy acidity. 1,256 cases produced, to be released in June 2019.” – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate