Au Bon Climat

Au Bon Climat

Au Bon Climat is a renowned winery located in Santa Barbara County, California. It was founded in 1982 by winemaker Jim Clendenen, who is known for his commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted wines.

History

Au Bon Climat, which means "a well-exposed vineyard" in French, was established with the goal of creating Burgundian-style wines in California. Jim Clendenen, a passionate winemaker with a deep appreciation for the wines of Burgundy, set out to produce elegant and balanced wines that showcased the unique terroir of Santa Barbara County.

Vineyards and Winemaking

Au Bon Climat sources its grapes from various vineyards in Santa Barbara County, including the renowned Bien Nacido Vineyard and the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard. These vineyards are known for their cool climate and diverse soils, which contribute to the complexity and character of the wines.

The winemaking process at Au Bon Climat is focused on minimal intervention and allowing the grapes to express themselves naturally. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted before fermentation. Oak barrels are used for aging, with a preference for French oak, which adds subtle nuances to the wines without overpowering the fruit flavors.

Notable Wines

Au Bon Climat produces a wide range of wines, with a particular emphasis on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Some of their notable wines include:

- Au Bon Climat Chardonnay: This flagship wine is known for its elegance and balance. It exhibits flavors of ripe apple, citrus, and a hint of oak, with a long, refreshing finish.

- Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir: The Pinot Noir wines from Au Bon Climat are highly regarded for their complexity and finesse. They showcase flavors of red berries, earth, and spice, with a silky texture and well-integrated tannins.

Recognition and Awards

Over the years, Au Bon Climat has received numerous accolades for its exceptional wines. The winery has been consistently recognized by wine critics and publications for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Some of the notable awards include:

- Wine Spectator: Au Bon Climat has been featured in Wine Spectator's "Top 100 Wines" list multiple times.

- James Suckling: The wines of Au Bon Climat have received high scores and praise from renowned wine critic James Suckling.

External Links

- Official Website

See Also

- Santa Barbara County - Bien Nacido Vineyard - Sanford & Benedict Vineyard