Au Bon Climat Chardonnay 2019 Half Bottle

Au Bon Climat was founded in 1982 in Santa Barbara County by Jim Clendenen, a pioneering Californian winemaker who helped establish a refined, Burgundian-inspired style in the region. Jim’s winemaking career began with the 1978 harvest at Zaca Mesa Winery, serving as assistant winemaker to Ken Brown for three vintages. An overachiever, Jim left in 1981 to complete three harvests in one year on three continents: one in the USA, one in Australia, and one in France. While in France, renowned importer Becky Wasserman hired him to interview the winemakers in Burgundy she represented and document their viticulture and winemaking techniques. This insight into French winemaking was an amazing learning opportunity. The Au Bon Climat winery sources fruit from cool climate vineyard sites in Santa Maria Valley and surrounding coastal areas, where Pacific fog and long growing seasons allow slow, even ripening. Soils are predominantly marine derived sandy loam and calcareous clay. Vineyards are generally farmed sustainably rather than certified organic.

The fruit for the Au Bon Climat Chardonnay 2019 is whole bunch pressed and fermented using a combination of stainless steel and neutral French oak barrels. This is followed by ageing for around 10 months in French oak, with a modest proportion of new oak, around 20%, to preserve freshness and varietal purity. The wine shows aromas of lemon zest, green apple and white peach, with subtle notes of toasted hazelnut and brioche. The palate is balanced and textural, with bright acidity and a mineral driven finish. It pairs well with roast chicken, grilled sea bass, creamy pasta dishes and soft cheeses.