Brewer-Clifton Machado Pinot Noir

At Brewer-Clifton, we believe that the geographic, geologic and climatic uniqueness of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation provide an ideal place to grow Chardonnay and Pinot Noir of intensity, complexity and specificity.

Our mission and indeed our passion is to present wines that convey the characteristics inherent to each of these sites, with uncompromising quality. Only neutral barrels are employed. We strive for whole cluster fermentation. We farm with a focus of ripening the stems alongside the fruit, allowing the cluster to be in harmony. Working with the stems allows for wines that are structured, earthy and balanced with our beautiful Sta. Rita Hills fruit. We often use the analogy of roasting fish or meat on the bone, the bone offers complex flavors very different than taking it off of the bone to cook it. Looking to secure a mirror-image sister ranch to our 3D Vineyard, we began working with the Machado family in the winter of 2008. Our 15 acre parcel on their land is located adjacent to Clos Pepe and immediately behind the Kessler-Haak Vineyard. The site is marked by a gorgeous rolling terrain with sandy loam soils. At Machado, the majority of the planting is dedicated to Pinot Noir with equal amounts of such selections as Pommard, Merry Edwards, Mount Eden, and 459.