Au Bon Climat - Pinot Gris/Pinot Blanc 2023 (750ml)
Price: $28.99
| Producer | Au Bon Climat |
| Country | United States |
| Region | California |
| Varietal | Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Sku | 204381 |
| Size | 750ml |
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Au Bon Climat Description
Au Bon Climat is a Burgundy-centric winery, meaning if the grapes aren’t found in Burgundy, then Au Bon Climat doesn’t produce that wine. In Burgundy, white wines are limited to Aligoté, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay. Starting in 1990, Au Bon Climat made single varietal Pinot Blanc, and with the 1995 vintage, a single varietal Pinot Gris. These wines showed great promise, leading to the first Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc blend in 1997. The wine was so successful that it has become a staple in the Au Bon Climat portfolio ever since, with the percentages of each variety changing with each vintage.
The Pinot Gris primarily comes from the Sierra Madre Vineyard, one of the oldest vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley. Established in the early 1970s, it has changed hands five times in the last 40 years, including five years under Mondavi ownership in the late 1990s. Mondavi's investment significantly benefitted the vineyard. Known for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Sierra Madre has only 12 acres of Pinot Gris. The Pinot Blanc comes from Bien Nacido, recognized as one of the world's elite vineyards. With these two excellent fruit sources, creating this wonderfully expressive wine each year is straightforward.
Found somewhere between complexity and simplicity is our Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc blend.
Tasting Note: Mineral-driven dry white is also crisp and fruity with restrained elegance. The nose offers upfront notes of kumquat, green apple, and pear. Its light yet robust texture is complemented by pleasant sandstone minerality, balanced acidity, and fresh lemon peel flavors, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Wine Paring: Holds enough complexity to pair with dishes from rich to light. For lighter options try matching this with pear and gorgonzola salad or a grilled lemon-herb chicken. For richer meals, serve this wine with steamed mussels and beurre blanc or grilled parmesan garlic oysters.
