2012 Brewer-Clifton "3-D" Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

Brilliant red. Sexy, intensely perfumed aromas of red fruit preserves, incense, smoky minerals and potpourri, with a hint of blood orange in the background. Stains the palate with concentrated raspberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors lifted and sharpened by a peppery spice nuance. Rich, lively and precise, showing excellent finishing thrust and cling and chewy tannins. This potent but lithe Pinot should reward patience. … As usual, the 2012 Pinots were made entirely with whole clusters and show the flamboyant fruit of the vintage to full effect, but the wines have more than enough acidity and framework to suggest that they'll age gracefully. Brewer thinks that they'll be appealing to those 'who drink Pinot for its sex appeal' as well as those 'who want them to show a little more mystery' down the road. (JR)