Millesima USA LLC – New York Fine Wine Merchant
Au Bon Climat
Pinot Noir 2015
Jim Clendenen quit law school in the 70s to pursue a career in the wine industry after a short stint studying abroad in both Champagne and Burgundy, France. After working passionately with a few vintners, the “mind behind” and a fellow winemaker sought out in 1982 to establish a winery focusing on producing classically styled wines as an homage to the Burgundian varietals that sparked his passion. Au Bon Climat was born from the love of quality winemaking and the unique terroir of Santa Barbara County. Clendenen would eventually become the sole proprietor and today the winery is recognized for its unique portfolio of quality wines. One great example is the 2015, Santa Barbara Pinot Noir; deep rich hues of purple, an aromatic bouquet of anise, cloves, red berries, and a mouth filling intensity, suppleness, boasting raspberry and strawberry notes.
Oldenburg Vineyards
Chenin Blanc 2012
Oldenburg Vineyards is a family owned boutique winery located just above the town of Stellenbosch in Banghoek Valley, South Africa. The estate began as a fruit farm, growing some of the first plantings in the area and selling quality grapes to a local winery before making the leap to wine production. Proprietor Adrian Vanderspuy having been born nearby the estate, had the advantage of familiarity with the area’s terroir which eventually led to the acquisition of the land, and ultimately the vineyard’s maiden vintage in 2007. It is safe to say that all of Oldenburg Vineyards’ wines reflect Vanderspuy’s reverence and admiration for his home, and the 2012 Chenin Blanc is no exception to that rule. The wine has a bright straw color, aromas of peach and plumes of citrus blossom that meld with oak spice and toasty vanilla. The palate is creamy and textured with wonderful balance between acidity and wood. Baked apple tart and ripe tropical fruit notes support its oaky structure that gives way to lingering minerality on the finish.