The 2022 Brewer-Clifton Chardonnay from the Santa Rita Hills is a distinguished white wine hailing from California's renowned Central Coast. Produced by Brewer-Clifton, this Chardonnay showcases the meticulous craftsmanship that the winery is known for.
This wine is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes and features a cork closure, maintaining its traditional presentation. With an alcohol content of 13.5%, it strikes a harmonious balance between richness and drinkability.
One of the prominent reviews for this wine comes from Decanter, where it received an impressive score of 92. The review by Decanter, dated November 1, 2023, describes the 2022 Brewer-Clifton Chardonnay as "a fresh and electrifying Chardonnay comprised of three different Sta Rita Hills sites." This multi-site composition contributes to the complexity and depth of the wine.
Decanter's tasting notes highlight the wine's "herbal aromatics of sweet hay, wild dill, and tarragon," which are complemented by "notes of grilled orange rind." On the palate, it offers "flavours of candied ginger, grilled lemon, orange oil, crushed quartz, and chalk minerality." These intricate flavor profiles suggest a well-balanced and sophisticated Chardonnay that can appeal to a wide range of palates.
The Santa Rita Hills sub-appellation in Santa Barbara is known for its unique terroir, which imparts distinctive characteristics to the wines produced in this region. The combination of cool coastal influences and diverse soils provides an ideal environment for growing high-quality Chardonnay grapes.
In summary, the 2022 Brewer-Clifton Chardonnay Santa Rita Hills is a noteworthy wine that embodies the essence of its region. With excellent reviews and a complex flavor profile, it stands out as a compelling choice for Chardonnay enthusiasts. As Decanter aptly puts it, this wine is "fresh and electrifying," making it a wine worth trying.