Winemaking Process | Brewer-Clifton's 2021 Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir is a testament to the unique terroir of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA and the winery's commitment to expressing the essence of this special growing area. This bottling is a blend of Pinot Noir from three distinct vineyards within the appellation: 3D, Machado, and Hapgood.
The winemaking philosophy at Brewer-Clifton is centered on minimal intervention and maximum expression of terroir. They employ only neutral barrels in the aging process, ensuring that the pure fruit character and unique qualities of each vineyard site shine through. The winery strives for whole cluster fermentation, carefully farming their vineyards to ripen the stems alongside the fruit. This approach allows for a harmonious cluster and results in wines that are structured, earthy, and beautifully balanced with the characteristic fruit of the Sta. Rita Hills.
Brewer-Clifton's farming practices are tailored to each vineyard's unique requirements. They focus on achieving a natural balance between the site, the vines, the aspect, and the microclimates in each vineyard, using sustainable and/or organic methods whenever possible. This attention to detail in the vineyard translates to wines of intensity, complexity, and specificity.
Tasting Notes | As you pour a glass of the 2021 Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir, you'll be greeted by a wine that embodies the drive, richness, and pedigree of this special growing area. The nose offers enticing aromas of pomegranate, white tea, and raspberry, hinting at the complexity to come.
On the palate, the wine reveals its true character. Flavors of dried fig, white truffle, and ripe cherry dance across the tongue, showcasing the purity of fruit that is a hallmark of Brewer-Clifton wines. The texture is reminiscent of rooibos tea, with a savory quality that adds depth and intrigue.
The wine's structure is firm yet elegant, a testament to the whole cluster fermentation and the unique terroir of the Sta. Rita Hills. The finish is long and complex, leaving a lasting impression of the region's distinctive character.
How to Enjoy | To fully appreciate the nuances of this Pinot Noir, it's recommended to serve it at a cool room temperature, around 60-65°F (15-18°C). This temperature range allows the wine's complex aromas and flavors to fully express themselves.
While the wine is showing beautifully now, Brewer-Clifton produces their wines with the intention of aging. This Pinot Noir can easily be cellared for at least 10 years and can be enjoyed after 15 years, allowing it to develop additional complexity and nuance.
For those who choose to open it now, consider decanting the wine for 30-60 minutes before serving to allow it to fully open up and reveal its layered character.
This sophisticated Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes that complement its complex flavor profile. Consider serving it alongside:
* Herb-roasted duck breast
* Grilled wild salmon
* Mushroom risotto
* Aged, soft cheeses like Camembert or Brie
The wine's firm structure and savory qualities make it an excellent companion for dishes with depth and richness, as it both complements and balances these flavors.
The 2021 Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir offers wine enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience the exceptional terroir of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Whether you're a longtime fan of cool-climate Pinot Noir or new to the style, this wine promises a profound and authentic expression of one of California's most exciting wine regions.
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