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Anthony Gismondi on Wine
Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noirtext
92POINTS
17/20

Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2021

Santa Rita Hills, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesBrewer–Clifton is a champion of the much-heralded Sta. Rita Hills appellation and winemaker Greg Brewer and his team work under the doctrine of discipline, neutrality, and deliberate intent. Only neutral barrels are used, and the fermentations are all whole clusters complete with fully ripened stems to allow for a well structured, earthy wine to offset the big fruit. In 2021, the fruit comes off three sites, 3D, Machado and Hapgood, bringing a rich selection of clones including Swan, Pommard, 667, and the Merry Edwards clone. This was just tasted last month, so no big changes, although this bottle is singing. A lot of work goes into getting the most finesse they can from this wine, which they have done, but make no mistake, this is a powerful pinot. The nose is a dusty mix of red fruit and tea leaf, with an intense earthy forest floor and baking spice palate that finishes long and warm. The bigger the food here, the better. Peking duck would be a treat, or an even more decadent pork dish.Tasted: 10 May 2024Tasted by: Prices:
BC$79.99750mlselect private retailers
AB$73.32750mlselect private retailers
Producer: Brewer-CliftonDistributors: Summit Fine Wines
Grape: Pinot NoirCSPC: 256622UPC: 748252065797