Reviews & Ratings

2017 Au Bon Climat Chardonnay "Bien Nacido Vineyard"

Winery: Au Bon Climat

Vintage: 2017

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: 420

KWG Score: 94.4 (based on 5 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (93)

Review date: May 20, 2021

Wine Review: This medium gold colored Chardonnay from Au Bon Climat is terrific. It opens with a very inviting crème brulee and golden delicious apple bouquet with notes of oak. On the palate, this wine medium plus bodied with pleasant acidity. It is rich and concentrated with delicious flavors of butterscotch and cream soda along with notes of mango and lemon. I also detected hints of apricot. The finish is dry and nicely refreshing. This Chard is wonderful on its own. With food, I would pair it with Chicken St. Timothy. Enjoy – Ken

Winemaker Notes: One whiff 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 mixes nicely with a lemon limey note. Surprising rich on the palate, classic varietal flavors of apple, citrus and vanilla go on and on. This lively Chardonnay will go with wide assortment of foods. Lobster Pappardelle with chive butter, or fresh corn soufflé with bacon and comté cheese are just a couple of favorites with this wine.

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