2022 Hyde Vineyard Merlot

The Carneros area is planted overwhelmingly with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, at 51% and 44% of the total acreage, respectively. And this is not without good reason as the climate is ideal for these two grape varieties. However, Carneros is a special, if not magical, place for Merlot. A place where the grapes can hang deep into October, developing additional layers of ripeness without losing freshness or acidity. We are very fortunate to work with famed grower Larry Hyde, who has been growing grapes in Carneros for over 40 years. Block #38 features a selection of Merlot from the historic “Three Palms” vineyard planted on St. George rootstock. The quadrilateral cane configuration opens up the canopy for light penetration, and we leave only 1-cluster per shoot, so each grape cluster hangs freely, never crowded by its neighbor. The yields are minuscule, making this fleeting winery exclusive a special addition to our portfolio of red wines. Only 94 cases produced. Winery Exclusive.
$69.00

Tasting Notes

Exotic dark fruits predominate on the nose with black raspberry, cinnamon, coastal berries, and fern. The hits keep on coming with the palate delivering crushed rock, followed by notes of baked cherries, grilled fig, and more savory fruit. Taste a bit of Carneros history from this duly famous vineyard, just four barrels of this devastatingly sexy wine were made.

Download Tasting Notes

Food Pairings

Our winemaker TJ Evans recommends pairing the Hyde Vineyard Merlot with rich meats like grilled rib-eye or baby lamb chops, but also works well with classic French ratatouille.

Varietal Composition

Vintage: 2022
Varietal: 100% Carneros Merlot
20 Months Barrel Aged in French oak, 50% new
Vineyard: 100% Hyde
Acid: 0.58g/100ml
pH: 3.51
Alcohol 14.8%

Rosé sparkling wine in a gold ice bucket with three flutes of wine next to it

Daily Toast

The mere popping of a cork instantly creates a celebration!
—Eileen Crane, Founding Winemaker