One of the highest rated Mt. Carmel Chardonnays produced in the early days, the 2006 has eclipsed its initial lofty score of 96. A profound Chardonnay with spectacular length, stunning richness, a light gold color, and hints of popcorn, honeysuckle, pineapple and marmalade, this full-bodied white builds incrementally, revealing refreshing acidity that buttresses the enormous extract and richness. No new oak is apparent in this remarkable wine. It should drink well for 15 or more years.

Terrifically sweet, pure notes of orange blossom, tangerine oil, damp earth and a hint of pineapple soar from the glass of the blockbuster 2006 Chardonnay Mount Carmel. This is a gorgeously full-bodied, layered Chardonnay that should drink well for at least a decade. All of the 2006 Pinots from Brewer-Clifton tend to emphasize the more spicy clove, allspice, underbrush, and root vegetable characteristics of Pinot Noir more than pure raspberry, black cherry, or black currant fruit. Not that they don’t have fruit, but it seems this vintage has been given a very overt spiciness, so readers who don’t like that might want to steer clear of the following Pinots. Some of the longest-lived Chardonnays being made in California these days come from the dynamic duo of Steve Clifton and Greg Brewer. The wines only see about 20-25% new oak and are bottled without fining or filtration. While their alcohols are relatively high, the acid levels are as well, and I have never had a Chardonnay from them that hasn’t been still very vibrant at 6-7 years of age, and they never taste hot.Tel. (805) 735-9184