2013 Patz & Hall Hyde Vineyard Carneros Napa Valley Chardonnay

1,161 cases, $60. Hyde-Wente selection planted on the best soils at Hyde: very low vigor and extremely well-drained sandy, clay loam. Whole cluster pressed, indigenous yeast fermentation, aged on lees with weekly stirring, 100% malolactic fermentation in barrels, aged in 45% new French oak barrels, bottled without filtration. · Light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas and flavors of lemon creme, cut apple and grapefruit in this acid-driven wine with obvious class. The right touch of toasty oak is complimentary, and the cleansing finish is uplifting. Not up to the 2012 version, but still exceptional. Score: 92. Reviewed January 17, 2016

Winery: Patz & Hall
From article: Sips of Recently Tasted Chardonnay