2013 Au Bon Climat, Knox Alexander, Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, California, USA

Pinot Noir is probably the most frustrating, and at times infuriating, wine grape in the world. However when it is successful, it can produce some of the most sublime wines known to man. This thin-skinned grape which grows in small, tight bunches performs well on well-drained, deepish limestone based subsoils as are found on Burgundy's Côte d'Or. Pinot Noir is more susceptible than other varieties to over cropping - concentration and varietal character disappear rapidly if yields are excessive and yields as little as 25hl/ha are the norm for some climats of the Côte d`Or.

Alexander Valley is a renowned wine region in Sonoma County, California, producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals. Its warm climate, well-drained soils, and diverse topography create an ideal terroir for growing premium grapes. The valley's proximity to the Russian River and the coast generates moderate temperatures, which helps produce balanced and expressive wines.

The late Jim Clendenen founded Au Bon Climat (ABC) in 1982. He became famous for making pioneering wines from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay on California’s Central Coast. He passed away in 2021 and is remembered as one of the most charismatic and influential people of his vinous generation.