Au Bon Climat Santa Maria Valley La Bauge Au-dessus Pinot Noir 2017


Synopsis, Our Opinion: A rich energetic California Pinot Noir that had refined and resonant fruit flavors.

Producer/Winery: Jim Clendenen; Au Bon Climat; Santa Maria, California.

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir.

Geographic Appellation, Region, Country: Santa Maria Valley; Central Coast, California.

Vintage: 2017

Price: $30.00 (with a club discount)

Purchased From: Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Tasting Room; Santa Barbara, California.

Paired With: Swedish meatballs in sauce, egg noodles and roasted cabbage.

Tasting:

    Opened 90-minutes before drinking. Clear, pale ruby color with a slightly lighter rim. Rose blossom dominated bouquet with dried leaves, fresh turned sod and juicy ripe fruit aromas. Smooth entry, fresh, lively and bold mouthfeel; medium body and a 80-grit texture. (There was a slight alcohol taste on the first pour.) California fruity with lots of tart cherry, pomegranate and raspberry flavors with just a touch of vanilla and fresh herbs. Medium acidity, well integrated tannins and a long dry, slightly bitter and spicy finish. This was a California fruity wine that tastes just like it smells. Bold yet very delicious Pinot Noir. Excellent paired with the strong flavors of the Swedish Meatball sauce and equally good sipping without food. We called it a rich energetic California Pinot Noir that had refined and resonant fruit flavors.

Jim Clendenen
Photo from Au Bon Climat.
Comments: Learn more about Jim Clendenen and his Au Bon Climat wines.

See all our reviews of Au Bon Climat wines.

Alcohol Content: 13.5%

Closure: Aluminum covered 50mm Natural cork.

UPC Code: 8 50755 00005 9

Imported by: Not applicable.