Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir 2022

Au Bon Climat is a renowned winery located in Santa Barbara County, California, founded by Jim Clendenen in 1982. Known for its dedication to producing wines with Old World elegance and New World flair, Au Bon Climat has earned a stellar reputation, particularly for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines. Clendenen's approach emphasizes traditional Burgundian techniques and has consistently placed Au Bon Climat at the forefront of California's wine industry.

Santa Barbara County is celebrated for its unique terroir, characterized by its transverse mountain ranges that allow cool Pacific Ocean breezes to flow into the valleys. This cool climate is ideal for growing Pinot Noir, as it provides a long growing season that allows the grapes to develop complex flavours while retaining their natural acidity. The diverse soils, ranging from sandy loam to clay, contribute to the distinctive profiles of wines from this region.

Appearance: The 2022 Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir showcases a bright ruby-red colour with a slight translucency typical of Pinot Noir, indicating a youthful and fresh wine.

Aroma: The nose is vibrant, with aromas of red cherry, raspberry, and cranberry mingling with subtle notes of rose petals and earthy undertones. A hint of spice, such as clove or cinnamon, adds complexity to the aromatic profile.

Taste: On the palate, this Pinot Noir is medium-bodied with a silky texture. The red fruit flavours are pronounced, offering juicy cherry and ripe strawberry, complemented by nuances of pomegranate and a touch of vanilla from oak aging. The wine's bright acidity balances the fruitiness, giving it a lively character.

Finish: The finish is elegant and long, with lingering notes of red fruit and a hint of minerality that reflects the Santa Barbara terroir. The tannins are fine-grained and smooth, providing a soft structure that enhances the wine's drinkability.

Pairing: This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with smoked pidgin served with a fig glaze, as the wine's fruitiness and acidity will complement the rich flavours of the pidgin while the fig notes in the glaze echo the wine's primary fruit characteristics. It also matches well with grilled salmon or fungi risotto, accentuating the wine's earthy undertones.