Wine of the Week
Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir
The experience: A great introduction to the region that the movie "Sideways" made famous. Sourced from several vineyards, this hearty red perennially offers up spicy red fruit, a rich, earthy mouthfeel and a clean, balanced finish.
The setting: Roast chicken or other fowl is the perfect accompaniment, but this robust red would play well with burgers, lightly spiced Mexican dishes and grilled Vidalia onions.
The back story: Au Bon Climat, by the winery's definition, is French for "well-exposed vineyard."
The tab: $25, available at Solo Vino, South Lyndale, Northfield municipal and the Kenwood restaurant.
Bill Ward