Winemaker Description
Highly aromatic with flavors of grapefruit, peach, honeysuckle, lemon curd with minerality and a note of nutmeg in the background. It is round mid-palate but is zippy and bright with fresh acidity. It finishes with notes of elderberry and brioche while the creamy mouthfeel lingers.
Enjoy with perfectly seasoned roast chicken, pasta alfredo, seared scallops or baked brie en croute.
Santa Barbara County’s climate and terroir consistently enable Au Bon Climat to produce balanced and lively Chardonnays year after year.
Our 2023 Santa Barbara County Chardonnay is sourced from five carefully farmed vineyards: Bien Nacido, Los Alamos, Rancho Real, Gold Coast, and North Canyon. Throughout September and October, the fruit is handpicked and sorted in the vineyard, then whole cluster pressed. The juice is quickly settled, chilled, and transferred to barrels for primary fermentation and malolactic fermentation. The following summer, the lots are blended and the wine is bottled, after 8 months of sur lie barrel aging in neutral François Frères barrels.
Memo Summary Notes
The Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Santa Barbara County 2023 is a benchmark California wine known for its "Burgundian" approach—prioritizing balance, acidity, and minerality over the heavy oak and buttery richness often associated with the region.
Discover the Flavor Profile
At the Good Climate, the Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Santa Barbara 2023 showcases a vibrant flavor profile that excites the palate. This Chardonnay offers notes of ripe apple, pear, and subtle hints of citrus, balanced perfectly with a touch of oak. Each sip reveals a complexity that makes it a delightful companion for various occasions. The wine's bright acidity enhances its fruity notes, providing a refreshing experience. Whether you are enjoying it with seafood or a light salad, this Chardonnay complements your meal beautifully.
Masterful Winemaking Techniques
Produced in Santa Barbara, a region known for its ideal growing conditions, this Chardonnay reflects the care and expertise of Au Bon Climat's winemaking. The grapes are harvested at the peak of ripeness, and fermentation is done using traditional methods. Therefore, the wine retains its fresh, intense flavors while gaining a creamy texture. The aging process in French oak barrels adds depth and complexity, making this Chardonnay not only a drink but an experience that showcases the artistry behind each bottle.
Perfect Pairings and Occasions
This Chardonnay is versatile and pairs excellently with various dishes. For a summer gathering, serve it alongside grilled chicken or lobster, and watch how the flavors sing. It is also an excellent choice for a cozy night in, as it brings warmth and sophistication to your evening. You can enjoy it with friends or savor it during a quiet moment at home. Because of its complexity and approachability, Au Bon Climat Chardonnay Santa Barbara 2023 is a perfect fit for any occasion.
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