Reviews & Ratings

2020 Au Bon Climat Chardonnay "Bien Nacido Vineyard"

Winery: Au Bon Climat

Vintage: 2020

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Bien Nacido Vineyard"

Wine Category: Chardonnay

Grape blend: 100% Chardonnay

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Santa Maria Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $35

Cases produced: 200

KWG Score: 92.4 (based on 5 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (92)

Review date: May 16, 2023

Wine Review: This straw-colored Chardonnay from Au Bon Climat opens with a caramel apple and oak bouquet with hints of vanilla, pineapple, and wet stone. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is balanced, bright and mouthwatering. The flavor profile is a Meyer lemon and green apple peel blend with notes of butterscotch and chalky minerality. I also detected hints of chamomile tea, baking spice and honey. The finish is dry and refreshing for a Chard. I would pair this Chard with a chicken and wild mushroom ravioli with a butter cream sauce. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: The aroma immediately reveals this is obviously Chardonnay made in an Old-World style. Minerality and reduction from extended lees contact, reminds us of Burgundy. Sweet barrel spice integrates nicely with a floral, Meyer lemon note. Surprising rich on the palate, subtle flavors of citrus, nectarine, coconut, almond and vanilla go on and on.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Au Bon Climat 2020 Bien Nacido Vineyard Chardonnay.