The 2009 Pinot Noir Mount Carmel impresses for its generous radiant personality. Constantly changing in the glass it shows off a multi-dimensional expression of dark raspberries crushed flowers licorice and spices. I especially like the way this blossoms through the mid-palate and onto the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. No one has done more to carry the banner for the Santa Rita Hills than Greg Brewer and Steve Clifton. Both together at Brewer-Clifton and separately in their other projects Brewer and Clifton consistently deliver delicious wines that are also deeply thought provoking with regards to the potential these vineyard sites hold. The Pinots in particular are compelling. The 2009 Pinots saw a seven day cold soak and fermentations that lasted a total of 35-40 days with 100% stems. -AG