2023 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Lala Panzi Vineyard

Au Bon Climat and the fascination with the Russian River Valley

Au Bon Climat has been a staple in Santa Barbara County for decades, but founder Jim Clendenen was keen to explore beyond his immediate surroundings. He was deeply captivated by the style and fruit profile of Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley. The combination of ripe fruit, spice, and refinement appealed to him and inspired him to pursue targeted collaborations there as well.

The Pinot Noir Lala Panzi Vineyard is the result of that interest. It's a single-vineyard wine that showcases how Au Bon Climat's classic signature blends with the distinct characteristics of the Russian River Valley. This approach aligns with the winery's philosophy, which prioritizes provenance, structure, and aging potential.

Lala Panzi Vineyard in Russian River Valley

Lala Panzi Vineyard is located in the heart of the Russian River Valley and is owned by Barbara and Richard Mendelsohn. The vineyard covers just five hectares and is planted entirely with Pinot Noir. This small scale allows for meticulous attention to detail in the vineyard, with a strong focus on quality and low yields.

The Russian River Valley is known for its cool mornings and fog that drifts inland from the Pacific Ocean. Combined with sunny afternoons, this results in a long growing season and even ripening. This climate produces Pinot Noir with ripe fruit, aromatic depth, and a distinctive spicy undertone.

Single vineyard Pinot Noir within the range

Within the Au Bon Climat range, this Pinot Noir clearly occupies a place as a single-vineyard wine. Unlike blends or cross-vineyard cuvées, the emphasis here is entirely on the expression of a single location.

Lala Panzi Vineyard showcases a different side of Pinot Noir than the cooler Santa Maria Valley or Santa Rita Hills. The style is slightly riper and fuller, while retaining freshness and structure. This wine makes an interesting contrast within the winery's portfolio.

Grape variety, cloning and harvest

The 2023 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Lala Panzi Vineyard is made from 100% Pinot Noir. Several clones have been planted in the vineyard, including 114, 115, 667, 777, and Pommard. Each clone contributes uniquely to aromatic complexity, structure, and depth.

The harvest took place in the cool morning hours, just before a late heat wave. This precise harvesting time ensured the grapes arrived in the cellar in optimal condition. All grapes were hand-harvested and rigorously selected to ensure only the finest fruit was used.

Vinification with attention to detail

After arriving at the winery, the grapes were carefully processed. Fermentation was slow and controlled, allowing the different clones to retain their distinct character. Careful monitoring of the fermentation process ensured a balanced extraction.

This method results in a Pinot Noir with distinct layers, where fruit, spice, and structure complement each other. The focus is on precision and depth, without making the wine heavy or ponderous.

Maturation in French oak and structure

The wine was aged for twenty-four months in French oak barrels from François Frères, fifty percent of which were new. This long aging contributes to its complexity and gives the wine firm yet ripe tannins.

The use of new oak is evident, yet remains in balance with the fruit and natural acidity. The wine has an alcohol content of 13.5%, an acidity of 6.3 g/l, and a pH of 3.48. These values ensure tension and longevity.

Color, aroma and taste of Pinot Noir Lala Panzi Vineyard

In the glass, the wine displays a deep ruby red color. The nose is rich and complex, with aromas of black cherry, currant, and blackberry. This is followed by spicy notes of dried thyme, sumac, and sassafras, which provide depth and nuance.

On the palate, the wine develops a full and layered character. Flavors of ripe plum, bitter almond, and sarsaparilla are complemented by a slightly sweet note reminiscent of molasses. The finish is long and structured, with drying wood tannins that lend tension and length to the wine.

Style, balance and development

This Pinot Noir combines ripeness and concentration with freshness and structure. The wine is already appealing for its aromatic richness, but it possesses sufficient grip and depth to further develop in the coming years.

Within the Au Bon Climat range, this bottling will particularly appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate Pinot Noir with a distinctive character and a clear expression of origin.

Would you like to order Au Bon Climat wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send this to you when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. https://www.grandcruwijnen.nl/bezoek-ons You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. https://www.grandcruwijnen.nl/sommy

Wine and food pairings with 2023 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Lala Panzi Vineyard

Baked brie with a blackcurrant compote complements the ripe fruit and spicy notes.

Grilled lamb chops with rosemary go well with the firm texture and spicy character.

Oven-baked chicken with herbs and citrus zest combines beautifully with the fresh acidity and ripe fruit notes.

Slow-cooked pork tenderloin with a slightly sweet glaze enhances the depth and roundness of the wine.

Roasted mushrooms with polenta complement the earthy nuances and long finish.

Ravioli filled with mushrooms and a light butter sauce works well with the layering and texture of the Pinot Noir.