Grapelive Daily Pick
By Kerry Winslow
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2008 Brewer-Clifton Chardonnay “Sweeney Canyon” Sta. Rita Hills.
Okay, right off the bat, I’ll tell you this Chardonnay is not for the Rombauer crowd, it is more for a select few of enthusiasts that go for Chards that don’t really taste like run of mill Chards. This vintage is like Chablis Grand Cru meets Riesling from Alsace! It sounds crazy and geeky, but this wine is cool and seductive, I could not get enough of it and look forward to trying it again! Steve Clifton told me that there was a trace amount of Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc in this vineyard and all the grapes are picked like a field blend, which is why it is so unique, even though there is at least 90-92% Chardonnay in the final wine. Steely with honeysuckle, jasmine, apricot, pear, mineral spices. Edgy and bright though opens up with time to reveal apple and lemon, with brioche and quince. I love this wine, might just be my personal favorite, I could easily rate it a few points higher..
($57 Est.) 94 Points, grapelive
*If you are interested in Brewer-Clifton wines drop me an email, and I’ll help you get them!
kerry@grapelive.com
Or Visit:
www.brewerclifton.com
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