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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Chardonnaytext
91POINTS
16¾/20

Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay 2017

Santa Rita Hills, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesThe Brewer-Clifton philosophy is embedded in the geographic, geologic and climatic peculiarities of the Santa Barbara sub-AVA Santa Rita Hills. The fruit is intense and tropical, and using only neutral barrels allows it to shine through without any extra weight, but with power and finesse. There are four vineyards in the blend, using a mix of clones including a Wente selection initially taken from the Nielsen Vineyard planted in Santa Maria in 1964, and the Mount Eden chardonnay, each adding complexity. In 2017 this label remains fresh and juicier than you might expect, offering up floral undertones and an attractive lemon and lime flecked with ginger and lees before a full marmalade and nutty finish. This is full-throttle chardonnay that is ready to drink. Best with grilled lobster or Dungeness crab with butter.Tasted: 15 September 2019Tasted by: Prices:
BC$41.99750mlBCLS
AB$36.99750mlprivate wine shops
Producer: Brewer-CliftonDistributors: Summit Fine Wines
Grape: ChardonnayCSPC: 256625UPC: 748252065698