2008 Ramey Hyde Vineyard Napa Valley Chardonnay 750ml

Quick Overview

David Ramey is widely acknowledged to be among the wine pioneers whose efforts helped raise the bar for all American winemakers and brought California to the forefront of the international wine world. David’s groundbreaking work with indigenous yeasts and malolactic and barrel fermentation yielded a new California style that was richer, more lush and silky smooth than previously known. As a result, he created a benchmark style now emulated by many.

Wine
Ratings 93RP 95ST

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2008 Ramey Hyde Vineyard Napa Valley Chardonnay ENLARGE

2008 Ramey Hyde Vineyard Napa Valley Chardonnay 750ml

Located in gently rolling terrain north of Carneros Highway, the soils are quite heavy clay. Vine selection is old Wente, Robert Young and Long Vineyards - each a Wente selection themselves - ranging in age from 10 to 29 years old. The Wente is marked by very small grape clusters, with small berries, and the so-called “hen-and-chick” - large and small berries within the same cluster. The Wente produces a classic, Burgundian-style wine without the tropical fruit tones of some California Chardonnays. The Long Vineyards selection adds a floral note, and the Hyde Vineyard wines often seem charming and feminine. High natural acidity plays a prominent role.

ROBERT PARKER RATING: 93

ROBERT PARKER REVIEW: The 2008 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard reveals a fragrant bouquet of caramelized citrus, tropical fruits and subtle smoke as well as medium to full-bodied flavors, good acidity and a crisp mouthfeel. Drink it over the next 4-6 years.

STEVE TANZAR RATING: 95

STEVE TANZAR REVIEW: Bright gold. Energetic aromas of green apple, jasmine, minerals and lemon zest. Dry and nervy, with brisk acidity and a saline nuance giving energy and lift to its citrus and orchard fruit flavors. Vibrant and impressively pure chardonnay, finishing spicy, long and dry, with an intriguing floral quality.