2011 TOP 25 - Rank #11
Founded in 1982, Au Bon Climat (which means "a well-exposed vineyard") produces internationally-recognized Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc wine from grapes grown in California's Santa Barbara County. The Le Bon Climat vineyard is situated primarily on hill tops, with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Viognier as the original plantings. Le Bon Climat is farmed organically and has been certified organic since 2003. The 2009 Le Bon Climat 'Isabelle' is an outstanding Pinot Noir, the nose is very perfumed and funky with floral, strawberry, and wet earth. On the palate there is tremendous grip and mouth-coating tannins. This is very old world in style and reminds me of a 1er Cru Gevery Chambertin. Finishes up super-smooth and just delicious.
94 POINTS