Shop Au Bon Climat
Au Bon Climat Wines: A Legacy of Burgundian Excellence
Au Bon Climat winery has long been renowned for its unwavering dedication to crafting exceptional, Burgundian-styled Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the picturesque Santa Barbara County. Nestled amidst the convergence of cool, brisk Pacific air, marine-based soils, and east-west running valleys, this region offers the ideal conditions for cultivating grapes of extraordinary quality. Hence, the name "Au Bon Climat," derived from the French idiom for "good place".
A World-Class Reputation Earned over Four Decades
Over the course of forty years, Au Bon Climat wines have garnered a well-deserved reputation on the international stage. Behind this remarkable success stands Jim Clendenen, widely regarded as "The Mind Behind" Au Bon Climat. From the outset, Clendenen established a clear objective and steadfastly adhered to his vision. Amidst changing trends in California winemaking, Au Bon Climat has remained resolute in its commitment to producing traditional, site-specific wines of nuance and iconic status.
A Timeless Commitment to Excellence
At its core, Au Bon Climat embodies a state of mind. Founded in 1982 by Jim Clendenen following his exploratory journeys to Burgundy, the winery was built on the vision of creating world-class, Burgundian-styled Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs that exude intrigue, longevity, and balance through the application of traditional principles. This unwavering commitment has remained unaltered throughout the winery's history.
By incorporating Old World winemaking techniques within the context of a New World wine region, Au Bon Climat wines possess a distinct signature while still embodying restraint and equilibrium. Barrel fermentation, whole cluster pressing, lees aging, and extended maturation in François Frères barrels are all standard practices at ABC. The grapes, meticulously hand-picked, are harvested at optimal sugar levels to ensure slow aging and development. These wines eschew flamboyance and exaggerated flavours, instead showcasing layers of complexity, well-structured profiles, and lower alcohol content.
A Shared Manifesto: The Au Bon Climat Wine Family
Jim Clendenen assembled a dedicated team of winemakers who understood and embraced his manifesto from the outset. This passionate and committed crew soon became the Au Bon Climat wine family. The alignment between crafting masterful wines, fostering a fulfilling work environment, and cultivating a strong, like-minded community has fostered loyalty and a shared sense of vision that endures to this day.
Experience the Essence of Au Bon Climat at The Reserve Cellar
Embark on a journey of discovery with Au Bon Climat wines, where the legacy of Burgundian excellence intertwines with Santa Barbara County's unique terroir. At The Reserve Cellar, we proudly offer a curated selection of Au Bon Climat wines, allowing you to savour the timeless craftsmanship and distinctive character of each bottle.
Explore our collection and elevate your wine experience today.
