2019 Chardonnay Au Bon Climat Sanford Benedict Vineyard Critics’ High Scores

Au Bon Climat 2019 Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Chardonnay: A Historic Santa Barbara Treasure

Experience the legacy of California’s Central Coast with this exceptional Santa Barbara Chardonnay. Sourced from the revered Sanford & Benedict Vineyard – a site under contract to Au Bon Climat for over four decades – this 2019 vintage embodies old-vine character and meticulous craftsmanship. Garnering impressive 94-92 point ratings from top critics, it’s a wine celebrated for its depth and finesse.

Meticulously aged in 75% new François Frères French oak barrels, this Chardonnay unfolds with captivating complexity. The bouquet entices with layers of crushed citrus, caramelized mandarin orange, singed oak, toasted almond, and a distinctive crushed rock minerality. On the palate, discover a beautifully balanced medium-bodied wine. It offers a lively, elegant mouthfeel where vibrant acidity meets building richness. Flavors of lemon zest, stone fruit, and subtle leesy notes evolve gracefully, revealing a generous, layered texture full of energy over time.

Critics praise its unique personality: from its “soft, silky contours” (Vinous) to its “wonderful balance” and “building richness” (Jeb Dunnuck). While expressive now, this wine possesses the structure to develop further with careful cellaring. When ready, its refined profile makes it an exquisite partner for rich seafood dishes like butter-poached halibut.

Discover why this Historic Vineyards Collection bottling stands apart. Enjoy a California Chardonnay that masterfully combines power from its Sta. Rita Hills roots with elegance and a persistent, mineral-driven finish. Alcohol: 13.5%.