Clendenen Family Vineyards "Aligoté" Santa Maria, California 2024

FROM AU BON CLIMAT:

THE WINE: Au Bon Climat has a soft spot for Aligoté, the lesser-known white grape from Burgundy. In 2022, our Bien Nacido Tocai Friulano block was grafted over to Aligoté, with the first small crop harvested in 2024. While these young vines establish, we are supplementing with Aligoté from Orcutt Road Vineyard in Edna Valley until Bien Nacido reaches full production in 2026.

The 2024 season brought early ripening and excellent conditions for white wines, producing fruit with freshness and vibrant natural acidity. Thanks to Santa Maria’s cool ocean breezes, our vineyards thrived despite heat waves and late rains. To preserve Aligoté’s hallmark minerality and palate-refreshing acidity, the wine was aged in neutral François Frères French oak barrels.

THE PRODUCER: Jim Clendenen often dreamed of having a small winery where commerce was not the driving force. Instead, the dream was to have the luxury to keep wines long in barrel should they need it (5 years for the Nebbiolo!); to explore offbeat varietals and idiosyncratic styles because they are interesting. Created in 2000, the Clendenen Family brand is a project of passion. There is no doubt quality is here along with the ABC signature of balance, finesse, and longevity.