2019 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Santa

Jim Clendenen, the “Mind Behind” Au Bon Climat since 1982, creates internationally acclaimed Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs of balance and intrigue. But there is life beyond ABC. Jim has other projects of passion that allow him to make artisan, small lots of distinctive wines from a wider spectrum of grape varietals under different brands.

Au Bon Climat

An homage to the wines of Burgundy, Au Bon Climat features many renditions of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc, with balance and character critical elements in every wine. These wines age beautifully because of their balance and restraint. There are four classifications within the Au Bon Climat brand.

1. Blue Series:  The four main wines in the blues series are created from the best cuvées and receive the highest percentage of new french oak. They are: Chardonnay “Nuits-Blanches au Bouge”, Hildegard (a blended white of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Aligoté), Pinot Noir “Knox Alexander”, and Pinot Noir “Isabelle.” We occasionally have other blue series wines such as our Pinot Noir “Larmes de Grappe” from Sanford & Benedict Vineyard.

2. Historic Vineyards Collection: The collection represent five iconic vineyards that have elevated the recognition of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Central Coast wine region; four from Santa Barbara County and one from San Luis Obispo County.

3. Single Vineyard Wines: There are more and more new plantings of vines that are coming into their own that are exceptioinal. Can’t pass that up the opportunity to work with them! These have included Runway Vineyard, Kick-On, Lala Panzi…more to come!

4. Santa Barbara County Classics: These are wines of character that are imminently enjoyable and very affordable so you can make them a part of your everyday life without sacrificing quality. The Santa Barbara County Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are remarkable for the price. The Pinot Gris/Pinot Blanc is elegant and refreshing.