2006 Kistler, Hyde Vineyard, Los Carneros

Lemon grass, orange blossom, marmalade, and nectarine characteristics along with notes of buttered citrus, peach, and wet stones are found in the 2006 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard. A full-bodied, beautifully textured style suggest this beauty will drink nicely for 5-7 years. Another impressive group of Chardonnays from Steve Kistler, these 2006s are unmistakably Burgundian in their aromatics, textures, and flavor profiles. Kistler has given up on the highly fashionable Dijon clones, relying on old California clones, primarily old Wente selections. He feels the same about Pinot Noir, using the Calera and other older California clones rather than the Dijon selections. Previously Recommended: 2005 Chardonnay Durell (94-96), 2005 Chardonnay Dutton (94-96), 2005 Chardonnay Hirsch (90-93), 2005 Chardonnay Hudson (90-92), 2005 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard (94-96), 2005 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard (95-98), 2005 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard Cuvee Cathleen (96-100), 2005 Chardonnay McCrea Vineyard (93-95), 2005 Chardonnay Stone Flat Vineyard (95-97), 2005 Chardonnay Vine Hill Vineyard (94-96). (Release date Spring 2009) Tel. (707) 823-5603; Fax (707) 823-6709