2015 Massican Chardonnay Hyde Vineyards - USA, California, Napa Valley (9/1/2017)
I have a context for Hyde vineyard Chardonnay, and this wine shatters that context. There is a mix of saline, ripe tangerine and finishing tart citrus acidic zing that bridges multiple countries and even grapes. One moment I get a clear California sunshine element with the tangerine, then the zip and saline aspects have me heading to Melon & Muscadet. The clear expression of Chardonnay without makeup brings an element of Chablis. All together it is complex and fascinating. It also has room to grow, as there is plenty of fruit to go along with the electric spine.
I only purchased one bottle when it was released, as I was trying out a small range of the Massican wines. Then, when the 2016 offering came though, I skipped the next vintage (instead focusing on Dan's blends) because I had not yet tried this wine. Two vintages, and two mistakes by me. I hope I get to rectify those mistakes in future vintages.