Description

The fruit is barrel fermented in Francois Freres barrels, 50% new, and aged for about 12 months prior to bottling. The flavour profile for this well-structured Chardonnay is in the subtle pear and apple realm with accents of lavender and anise from the time in barrel. The citrusy notes of lemon and orange will evolve into more of a mineral and saline quality. Over time, additional flavours and aromas will emerge as the wine expands. As a young Chardonnay, this wine pairs well with any fish, salmon to trout. With age, the wine matches will increase to dishes with mushrooms and game birds

"This is winemaker Jim Clendenen's take on the region's most important vineyard; This vineyard is known for Chardonnay with a flinty, crisp structure and complex nature. The 2018 is unusually forward yet well constructed, with a creamy, supple texture along with wonderfully expressive fruit. Drinking beautifully now."
92 points
(Wine Enthusiast Magazine, April 2020)

Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Santa Ynez Valley 2019

£45.00

Free delivery on local orders from £50

Available For Immediate Dispatch
Available For Click & Collect
DELIVERY & RETURNS

More Information

Attributes

Type: White Wine
Style: Buttery and Complex White
Country: USA
Region: Santa Barbara County
Vintage: 2019
ABV: 13.5
Size: 75cl
Vegan: Not certified

Au Bon Climat

Founded in the cool Santa Maria Valley, by the late Jim Clendenen and Adam Tolmach, in 1982. Jim was impassioned by a trip to Burgundy in the 1970s, and decided to eschew his law studies and establish a winery dedicated to the production of Burgundian varieties on California’s Central Coast. Since then, ‘ABC’ has been dedicated to the production of site-specific, cool climate renditions of Californian Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, combining American vision with European restraint and sensibility.

Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County, located on California's Central Coast, is a distinguished wine region known for its exceptional quality and diverse wine offerings. The region benefits from a Mediterranean climate with cool ocean breezes, which help to maintain a balance of warmth and freshness in the vineyards. The county is renowned for its high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, particularly from the Santa Maria Valley and Sta. Rita Hills, where the cool coastal influences enhance their complexity and elegance. The region also produces notable Syrah and Grenache, as well as robust reds and expressive whites from various varietals.
Historically, Santa Barbara’s winemaking began in the 18th century with Spanish missionaries, but its modern prominence emerged in the late 20th century.