Au Bon Climat, Wild Boy 2023

Why we love this bottle

Jim Clendenen built Au Bon Climat in Santa Barbara at a time when the region was still defining itself. Instead of following the push toward big, ripe styles, he focused on restraint, long fermentations and calm, careful élevage. Santa Barbara’s coastal influence gave him the conditions he needed: warm days for flavour and cool nights that kept the fruit sharp. Wild Boy may carry his playful label, but the winemaking behind it is the same measured approach that shaped the estate’s reputation.

The wine has the generosity you expect from California, but it stays clean and controlled. The texture is smooth without drifting into heaviness, and the freshness underneath gives it balance.

We love it because it shows exactly what Jim achieved in Santa Barbara: Chardonnay with character and warmth, held together by discipline and clarity. A relaxed wine on the surface, but built with intention.