Hudson Seashell Chardonnay 2023

Hudson Seashell Chardonnay 2023 is an exceptionally rare Napa Valley Chardonnay from a tiny parcel of limestone-rich soils formed by fossilised seashells—an origin reflected in its name and pronounced mineral character. Crafted from old Old Wente vines and shaped by the cool influence of San Pablo Bay, it combines Californian richness with the precision and longevity often associated with prestigious white Burgundy. A very limited release, the 2023 vintage received a perfect 100-point score from Lisa Perrotti-Brown.

Tasting Notes
The wine is pale gold in appearance, with a luminous clarity. Its intense, layered nose opens with lemon cream, white flowers, ripe peach, pear and pineapple, followed by toasted hazelnut, brioche and a subtle touch of salted caramel. On the palate, Seashell is silky, concentrated and remarkably precise. Flavours of citrus, stone fruit, ripe mango and grilled pineapple are framed by notes of butter, vanilla, freshly baked brioche and crushed limestone. Bright acidity brings energy and balance, while the long, mineral finish lingers for several minutes. With its concentration, freshness and careful oak integration, the wine has excellent ageing potential and should gain further complexity in bottle over the coming years.

Production
The grapes come from a very small parcel with calcareous soils built over millions of years from fossilised seashells. The site benefits from the cooling influence of San Pablo Bay, while the old Old Wente vines contribute depth and natural concentration. Vineyard work is carried out entirely by hand, and the 2023 growing season—unusually long and cool in Napa Valley—allowed for extended hang time while preserving freshness. The wine was aged for 22 months on its lees in 70% new French oak barrels, adding texture, brioche complexity and depth without masking the purity of the fruit.

Food & Serving
Serve lightly chilled at around 10–12°C, allowing the wine to open gradually in the glass. It is an excellent match for butter-poached lobster, crab, scallops, roasted or grilled fish, poultry with a creamy sauce, and dishes featuring mushrooms or truffles. Its mineral freshness also works beautifully with shellfish and refined seafood preparations. Decanting is not essential, but 20–30 minutes in a small decanter can help reveal the wine’s full aromatic depth, particularly when enjoyed young.

Producer
Hudson Vineyard is one of California’s most respected sources of premium Chardonnay, with Lee and Cristina Hudson working alongside renowned winemakers John Kongsgaard and Christopher Vandendriessche. The team’s philosophy centres on meticulous, hands-on vineyard work and allowing each wine to express both its distinctive terroir and the character of the vintage. Through its limited-production wines, Hudson has established a significant reputation in Napa Valley and is widely regarded among the region’s elite Chardonnay producers.

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