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The 2003 Vintage started as a cold, wet and late one. It was a vintage of contrasts. The cold and very wet spring may have interfered with fruit set resulting in relatively light yields ranging between 1.9 and 2.9 tons per acre. We dry farmed 90% of our blocks with the relatively slow and cool summer allowing the fruit flavors to develop beautifully showing great balance and sugar accumulation. In early August, a small rain increased the powdery mildew pressure in one of our blocks, but had little influence on the high quality and balance of the fruit. Harvesting the blocks between September 10th and 20th resulted in well balanced and refined wines. The fruit was gently put through a very slow whole cluster press cycle. The wines then started fermentation in stainless steel to retain the minerality which is the hallmark of the Hyde Vineyard fruit. Fermentation finished in French barrels and "foudre" with only 25% new oak and aged on lees for 11 months. Acid balance in the wines is very good giving way to an intense and broad mid palate. No filtration or fining was needed for this vintage. The 1,598 cases produced should have excellent cellaring potential.

You will find in this 2002 Chardonnay the delicate aromas and flavor of white peach combined with spice and floral honey. In the mouth, finesse and purity are sustained by a firm acid structure - the source of freshness and a guarantee of good cellaring potential. With its minerality, richness, and long finish, our 2002 Chardonnay is a clear expression of Hyde Vineyards terroir. These qualities bring the 2002 closer in style to our first vintage, the 2000 HdV Chardonnay.

The cooler-than-usual weather in late September and October allowed the later-maturing Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon vines to develop tannins and flavors to optimum ripeness. Natural acid levels are the key to health and longevity in a wine, and the acidity of the 2002 HdV Red wine is remarkable. Waiting for these conditions was important in 2002, and the rewards were concentrated fruit flavors, mature tannins, and firm natural acidity. The marriage of Merlot vines to Carneros clay soils gives, year after year, wines with firm structure and fine tannins. These wines need several years of ageing before reaching maturity. Thanks to the maturity of the grapes, careful fruit sorting and patient fermentation, our HdV Red shows layers of black cherry fruit and a gentle sweetness. This distinctive profile gives to the immediate drinker a key to appreciate the young wine. The combination of sweet spices, firm tannins and a solid frame of acidity contribute to the long finish of the wine. However, like the 2001, the 2002 HdV Red will prove its full potential within the next two to ten years.

How magical is the world of Syrah! This wine takes you right into an oriental market with a plethora of exotic aromas. Coriander, violet, rose blossom, clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, leather and fine tobacco blend together. This is a powerful wine, generous but also agile and elegant, thanks to its finely matured and delicate tannins. The nose is a blend of red and black fruits, spice and violet aromas. The multiple layers of spice and fruit will dazzle and linger on your palate for a long time. A rack of lamb or a favorite cheese would accompany this wine beautifully