A vision born in Burgundy
Jim Clendenen’s journey began far from California. A formative trip to Burgundy in the 1970s ignited his passion for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, convincing him that these noble varieties could thrive in his home state. His philosophy was clear: craft wines of balance and nuance, eschewing excess in favour of complexity and longevity. This Burgundian influence remains at the heart of Au Bon Climat’s identity, shaping wines that convey a sense of place with clarity and poise.
Vineyards of distinction
The name Au Bon Climat—“a well-exposed vineyard”—reflects the estate’s privileged coastal position, where Pacific fog and cooling breezes temper California’s sun. Grapes are sourced from some of the region’s most celebrated sites, including Bien Nacido and Clendenen’s own Le Bon Climat. These vineyards, with their varied elevations and organic practices, provide the foundation for wines that marry European finesse with a subtle Californian flourish.