Although it was my least favorite of the Brewer-Clifton Pinots, the dark ruby-tinged 2003 Pinot Noir Cargasacchi Vineyard is an excellent, possibly outstanding effort. Tight, structured, tannic, and austere, with coaxing, aromas of dried herbs, boiled meats, red cherries, and flowers emerge. Give this tightly-knit Pinot 1-2 years of cellaring and drink it over the following decade. Tel. (805) 452-5609

I was not that keen on this wine early in life, and it still appears to be a more narrowly constructed Brewer-Clifton offering than usual. Amber is noticeable at the edge as well as notes of damp earth, forest floor, figs, roasted meats, black currants and cherries. Medium-bodied with tart acids and 14.9% natural alcohol, this fully mature Pinot Noir is unlikely to improve, so drink it up over the next 3-4 years.