Au Bon Climat – Pinot Noir Santa Barbara Country 2020
RM399
California, United States
The 2020 Pinot Noir crop ripened slowly and evenly. The result was a nose loaded with dark fruits. A smokey, plummy note is first noticed and then fresher strawberry, cherry/berry aromas slowly become evident. It has a deep ruby color that foretells a mouth-filling intensity. This is not a wine that will take time to express its potential; it is a rich and satisfying experience even at this young age.
Strawberry and blackberry aromas slowly rise out of the glass. Over time, more of the anise and clove will mix with these other aromas. Currently, the wine is young with mouth-filling intensity and suppleness. Complexity will increase as the wine ages, but this wine should stay “fresh” for 6 or 7 years. Like all Au Bon Climat wines, this is a food wine. In its youth, match this wine with lamb or dried meats. After a few years, as the flavors coalesce, it will pair better with salmon or mild red sauce with pasta. We have enjoyed this wine with many food choices from spicy Indian dishes to all-American sandwiches, and the wine worked well with most anything. The possible food pairings are almost endless.
Grape
Pinot Noir
Taste Profile
Body 3/5
Sweetness 2/5
Acidity 3/5
