Tech Notes
Wine Details
International Wine Report
Wine Spectator
Wine Enthusiast
By Patz and Hall
2023 Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay
Vineyard
Purchased by Larry Hyde in 1979 and planted two years later, this renowned property is cultivated as 44 distinct blocks. The Hyde-Wente selection used for this Chardonnay is planted on the best soils at the site, ones characterized by very low vigor and featuring extremely well-drained Haire series, sandy loam, and clay loam, which lower the yields even more than usual for this small-berried clone.
Vineyard Details
Type: White
Region: California
Appellation: Carneros
Vintage: 2023
Vineyard: From vineyard blocks planted for us in 1997 and 1999 using the famous "Hyde-Wente" selection
Blend: 100% Chardonnay
Vintage
The 2023 vintage began with replenishing rains during the winter and spring months. This was a welcome event for growers since the previous three years saw varying degrees of drought. Spring followed with staggered budbreak and flowering, then a cool June. Warm summer days followed and sized up the berries, but cool weather returned in September, with average highs not exceeding 80 degrees F. This delayed harvest by 3-4 weeks. The tension was high with the impending risk of late-season botrytis. However, the weather held, and the resulting crop delivered the poise expected from a gradual, cool vintage.
Production
Vinification Process: Chardonnay shows you exactly what you put into it - or don't. When growers like Larry Hyde provide us with grapes they've tended for decades, shortcuts are not on the table. We hand sort twice, whole-cluster press for purity over volume, and let native fermentation take its course. After fourteen to eighteen months in French oak, we bottle without filtration. The result is lush Chardonnay that is rich and pleasing, yet pure and light on its feet.
Fermentation: 100% indigenous yeast fermentation, 100% malolactic fermentation in barrel
Aging: In 100% Burgundian French oak barrels; (24% new; 76% 1-2-year old)
Alcohol: 14.50%
Tasting Notes
The 2023 demonstrates why this vineyard is considered a New World Grand Cru site. Highly intense aromas of pear, wet rock minerality, and toasted almond meet crystalline acidity that flows around the highly complex, concentrated palate. Brightness of fruit characterizes a long, succulent finish.
[Information provided by Patz and Hall]
Region
Napa Valley
Vintage
2023
Grape
Chardonnay
Country
United States
Unit Size
750.00 ML
Alcohol Percentage
14.50
Appellation
Carneros
Wine: PATZ and HALL Chardonnay, Carneros, Hyde Vineyard 2023
Score/Rating: 96
Suggested Drinking Window:Â 2026-2036
Review Date: 01/2026
Reviewed By:Â Jeremy Young
Tasting Notes: The 2023 Patz and Hall Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay, Carneros, opens with a sophisticated and reductive aromatic profile, leading with crushed volcanic rock and yellow wildflowers. This medium-bodied selection spent [...] months in 100% French oak, which imparts a subtle savory depth of sweet white tea and a touch of umami. On the palate, the mineral-driven core is seamlessly joined by luscious white peach and nectarine flavors. The structure is defined by medium-plus acidity that provides a vibrant counterpoint to the wine's textural weight and integrated sweet spice. A long, persistent finish carries the stone fruit and flinty notes with exceptional elegance. For a refined pairing, serve this alongside seared sea scallops with a brown butter and sage reduction, as the wine's volcanic minerality and rich texture will beautifully cut through the sweetness of the shellfish.
Wine: Patz and Hall Chardonnay Napa Valley Carneros Hyde Vineyard 2023
Score/Rating: 95
Suggested Drinking Window:Â Drink now through 2038
Review Date: 07/31/2026
Reviewed By:Â MaryAnn Worobiec
Tasting Notes:Â A stunning wine, with plenty of power and detail. Offers Fuji apple and crunchy star fruit, plus a whiff of smoked and salted butterscotch to complement the notes of peach preserves, black cardamom and nutmeg, along with a touch of lemongrass. Toasted brioche and a bite of buttery shortbread leave a lasting impression. Drink now through 2038.
Wine:Â Patz and Hall 2023 Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay (Carneros)
Score/Rating: 93
Review Date: 09/01/2026
Reviewed By:Â Elaine Chukan Brown
Tasting Notes:Â Full bodied and striking with concentration and length that avoid heaviness, this is a powerful Chardonnay from the iconic Hyde Vineyard. Carrying the brightness of its 2023 vintage, the lavish flavors of orchard fruits, citrus, crushed almonds and oak spices retain energy and a palate refreshing finish. Open with time to enjoy.
