Nose
This wine starts with aromas of root beer, green tea, black tea, cola, mocha and cherries.
Palate
The accompanying flavors black licorice, clove, tea and spicy sausage. This is a rich wine, and the richness carries through to the finish. Beautifully perfumed, with notes of sweet cherries, underbrush, cured meats and dried flowers. It is a medium-bodied wine, silky and polished on the palate, with a fabulous texture.
Growing Conditions
Le Bon Climat is on southern border of the Santa Maria Valley AVA, overlooking the Santa Maria River. The cool Pacific Ocean air runs right up the Valley to Le Bon Climat. Most days the breeze from the ocean is evident before noon. The day time highs seldom get above 85⁰F and most days the highs are around the mid-seventies. Le Bon Climat was planted in 1997 with low vigor rootstock in poor soil. This combination of factors destined this vineyard to be slow growing and low yielding. Growing and ripening top notch Pinot requires keeping the tons per acre within balance. The soil, clone and rootstock combination at Le Bon Climat produces two tons per acre average, which is small.
Bottling
Bottled without filtration.
Aging
Aged in 100% new Francois Frères French oak barrels for 24 months.
Food Pairing
This substantial Pinot Noir loves meaty dishes, try it with any cut of veal or lamb.
