Country: US / Bien Nacido Vineyard Santa Barbara Historic Collection
Variety: Chardonnay California
Winery: Au Bon Climat / Santa Maria Valley
Jim Clendenen’s winery has sat in the middle of Bien Nacido for decades, so it is no wonder he nails the vineyard’s expression with this bottling, beginning with flinty and woody aromas that accent an orange custard creaminess on the nose. The palate also shows cedar-like oak, followed by waves of brioche, preserved lemon and orange marmalade flavors.