2024 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County

Au Bon Climat and the signature of Jim Clendenen

Au Bon Climat's slogan, "An homage to the wines of Burgundy," sums it up perfectly. It's difficult to talk about Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir without mentioning Alexander Payne's film "Sideways." The film arrived at just the right time, just as Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir was gaining popularity. Founded in the early 1980s by Jim Clendenen, Au Bon Climat is considered one of the pioneers of Burgundy-inspired wines in California. For over forty years, the winery has been known for its consistent style, focused on balance, freshness, and aging potential. Pinot Noir plays a central role in this and is a staple within the range. The focus is on classic vinification and precision, without following trends. You can find more information about the winery and its history under the "Winery" tab.

Santa Barbara County as a cool climate for Pinot Noir

Santa Barbara County is among California's most suitable regions for refined Pinot Noir. The valleys run east to west, allowing cool ocean air to flow deep inland. Fog, fresh breezes, and large temperature differences between day and night contribute to a long growing season and the retention of acidity.

This 2024 Pinot Noir uses grapes primarily from the Santa Maria Valley, supplemented by plots from Los Alamos. Vineyards such as Bien Nacido, North Canyon, Rancho Real, Kick On, and Los Alamos combine to create a layered and balanced wine, where fruit and structure blend beautifully.

The wine style of Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir

For 42 years, Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County has been a staple in Au Bon Climat's portfolio. The goal is always to create a Burgundian-inspired Pinot Noir that combines quality and drinkability. They work with small plots and traditional techniques, with a strong emphasis on handcrafting.

The style is fruit-driven, but never simple. Finesse, nuance, and balance are paramount. This is a Pinot Noir that effortlessly finds its place at the table and consistently performs above its price point.

2024 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir and grapes used

The 2024 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir is made from 100% Pinot Noir. The 2024 vintage is considered a particularly successful vintage for this grape within Santa Barbara County. The combination of ripe fruit and fresh acidity resulted in grapes with aromatic intensity and healthy skin structure.

The harvest took place in September 2024 and was carried out in multiple rounds. By staggering the picking, each plot could be harvested at the right time, contributing to precision and balance in the final blend.

Vinification and maturation in French oak

After manual harvesting, the grapes are fermented individually in small batches per plot. During fermentation, manual pigeages are performed daily, carefully extracting color, aroma, and tannins. This classic method gives the wine depth without harshness.

After fermentation, the wine is aged for eight months in neutral French oak barrels from François Frères. The use of neutral wood ensures that the oak supports the wine rather than dominates it. The aging adds structure and complexity, while keeping the fruit at the forefront.

Color, aroma and taste of the 2024 Pinot Noir

In the glass, the wine displays a bright ruby red color. The nose is expressive and refined, with aromas of ripe Bing cherry and blackberry, followed by floral notes of lilac and hibiscus tea. Subtle spiciness, such as crushed peppercorn, adds further depth.

On the palate, the wine is juicy and round, with a fresh attack and smoothly developed tannins. The fruit is vibrant, supported by an elegant structure and a long, polished finish. The balance of fruit, acidity, and tannins makes this Pinot Noir very versatile at the table.

Serving temperature and drinking window

Serve the 2024 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County preferably at around 15 to 16 degrees Celsius. The wine is immediately appealing and approachable, yet possesses sufficient structure to continue developing in the coming years. With some bottle aging, the spicy and earthy notes will deepen.

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 you these 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. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.
Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings with 2024 Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir

Hoisin-lacquered salmon from the oven
The sweet and spicy notes of the lacquer complement the ripe red fruit and fresh acidity of the wine.

Spicy oven-baked chicken with thyme and rosemary
The juicy structure of the Pinot Noir goes well with the tender meat and aromatic herbs.

Grilled hamburger with mushrooms and onion
The wine has enough fruit and structure to carry the grilled aroma and umami of the dish.

Duck breast with beetroot and light gravy
The combination of juicy fruit and soft tannins complements the rich texture of duck.

Rack of veal with sage and celeriac
The elegant structure of the wine supports the refined meat without being overpowering.

Risotto with roasted mushrooms and Parmesan
The earthy notes of mushrooms enhance the spicy and floral nuances in the wine.