Chardonnay was not always planted in the Corton Charlemagne wine region of France. During the reign of King Charlemagne it is believed Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Aligoté were the main white varietals. This intrigued Jim Clendenen to a degree that in 1998, Au Bon Climat created its first Hildegard blend, named after Charlemagne’s wife. A success from the start, we never stopped.
This distinctive blend gets the best of everything including 16 months barrel age in all new François Frères French oak, creating something special. It has a texture, complexity, and distinctiveness that cannot be found in a single white wine varietal.
Wine will be available Spring 2027.
"A blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Aligoté, the 2024 White Hildegard explodes in the glass with verticality and opulence. This is more about a singular expression than any true varietal signature, but that is quite effective here. Flint, hazelnut, orange confit, golden apple and exotic spices press down on the palate with rich waxiness and warming toastiness. This is a big, broad-shouldered white that feels very classic ABC. New French oak is dialed in so well here. The long finish is a perfect little bow on top." 95pts Billy Norris Vinous
