The 2007 Hildegard is a unique wine made from 55% Pinot Beurot (Pinot Gris), 40% Pinot Blanc and 5% Aligote inspired by the composition of the Corton Charlemagne vineyard in Burgundy as it was believed to have been planted during Charlemagne’s reign as Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. The Hildegard is a rich, textured white laced with white peaches, flowers, almond paste and subtle spiciness from the French oak. It shows lovely precision all the way through to the rich, creamy finish. Despite the wine’s generous, open texture, there is no sense of heaviness at all, except for the bottle itself. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2015. Jim Clendenen is one of the pioneers of the Central Coast. At their best, his wines capture striking expressions of some of the region’s top sites deeply influenced by a huge passion and admiration for the great wines of Burgundy.Tel. (805) 937-9801; www.aubonclimat.com

55% Pinot Grigio, 40% Pinot Blanc, 5% Aligote - hints of sultana and cinammon custard, banana and pineapple. Nutty edged palate with oxidative nuances, develops with mroe uts on the finish. Fine poise and balance. LongTangy edge to the fruit.