2023 Vivier - Chardonnay Carneros Hyde Vineyard (750ml)
Vivier Wines’ 2023 Chardonnay from Hyde Vineyard in Carneros offers a Burgundian-influenced California stylistic focus—grounded in the vineyard, shaped by Stéphane Vivier’s winemaking philosophy, and crafted with a light touch of French oak. The family project behind Vivier Wines began in 2009 with just thirty cases and a handful of credit cards, and today it brings Stéphane and Dana’s shared vision to life in a wine that speaks with clarity and restraint.
Terroir and approach come together at Hyde Vineyard on the eastern edge of Los Carneros. Vines here are exposed to cooling winds funneled through the Petaluma Gap, a microclimate that moderates temperatures and lengthens the growing season. The result is fruit with expressive acidity and developing complexity, captured in a wine that Stépane describes as lazy in the best sense—minimal intervention in the cellar and a focus on letting the vineyard’s character shine through.
Tasting profile
The wine presents a linear, restrained Chardonnay with bright lemon meringue, citrus, and mineral notes. It is backed by racy acidity and a touch of natural reduction that adds subtle depth and nuance. Medium-bodied and nervy rather than heavy, it carries real structure that invites thoughtful aging.
Wine details and aging potential
This bottling embodies a Burgundian sensibility—an elegant, controlled profile that can reward patience. The wine’s backbone of acidity and its understated, mineral-laced finish provide a foundation for evolving texture and nuance over the coming years.
Food pairings
- Roasted mushrooms
- Searing scallops
- Creamy goat cheese tart