Vinous (94)

Vinous (93)

Emanating from the famed Californian wine region, the Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Santa Ynez Valley 2020 captivates the exactitude of exquisite Chardonnay crafting. Revered winemaker Jim Clendenen, the virtuoso behind Au Bon Climat, applies traditional French techniques for this special selection. Grown in the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, the 2020 vintage offers a delicate melange of apple and citrus flavours, underscored by a gentle creaminess derived from judicious oak ageing.

Grapes for this gastronomic gem are handpicked and meticulously sorted to ensure top-tier quality. With limited production, the Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Santa Ynez Valley 2020 is a true treasure, oozing exquisite balance, testament to Clendenen's indefatigable commitment to excellence. This Chardonnay proves to be a superb statement of finesse, depth and complexity, deftly showcasing the exceptional terroir of Santa Ynez Valley.

Featuring a sublime balance of power and elegance, the Au Bon Climat Hildegard 2019 is an extraordinary blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Aligoté. Produced in Santa Maria Valley, California, this fine white wine represents the true prowess of esteemed winery, Au Bon Climat, fondly celebrated for their commitment to a Burgundian approach to winemaking.

With deep roots dating back to 1982, Au Bon Climat respects the idiosyncrasies of each grape cluster, crafting wines with patience and respect for natural processes. The Hildegard 2019 is barrel fermented and maintained 'sur lie' for as long as possible to retain its rich complexity. Vibrant acidity underlines luscious stone fruit and citrus notes, uplifting a full-bodied palate and culminating in a lasting finish.

Celebrating the intricate harmony of tradition and a pioneering spirit, the Au Bon Climat Hildegard 2019 is a commendable addition to any connoisseur's collection.

Vinous (93)

Indulge in the balanced complexities of the Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir La Bauge Au-Dessus Estate 2019. Crafted by legendary winemaker Jim Clendenen, his meticulous attention to detail unfolds in a spectrum of ochre and maroon hues that enliven the senses. Originating from the eminent Santa Maria Valley in California, this splendid vintage sings of the region's maritime climate and sandy loam soil.

Clendenen's Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir La Bauge Au-Dessus Estate 2019 was barrel-matured on lees for 18 months, adding an exquisite depth of flavour. Medium-bodied and elegantly structured, the wine presents a vibrant palette of wild berries, forest floor, and clove underpinned with a whisper of sumptuous French oak and supple, elongated tannins. A triumph in the art of winemaking, Au Bon Climat's 2019 Estate is a testament to the harmonious symphony possible in pinot noir.

The Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Sanford Benedict 2013 is a superior offering from the artisan winemaker, Jim Clendenen. Crafted in California's Santa Barbara County, this voluptuous varietal showcases the depth of flavour that characterises the region's Pinot Noir. Employing traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques, aged 24 months in François Frères barrels, the Sanford Benedict exhibits a vivid ruby hue. The nose carries sophisticated notes of cassis and dried cherry mingled with earthy undertones. The medium-bodied palate is beautifully balanced, an amalgamation of red berry fruitiness enveloped by soft tannins and a lingering mineral finish. The producer, Au Bon Climat, renowned for their meticulous viniculture, further enhances the wine's allure. The Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Sanford Benedict 2013 is regarded by wine connoisseurs as a mesmerising exemplar of new world wine with an old world charm.