Brewer-Clifton makes some of the most sought-after Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Santa Barbara wine growing region. Their wines, when they’re not on allocation, are difficult to find on release. Wine club members tend to grab up the early releases, and the rest of us must either wait - or miss out completely.

Winemaker, Greg Brewer, is a winemaking all star. We were blessed, dear Operative, to be offered wine from Greg’s latest project, F+B, which are more affordable than the main-label Brewer-Clifton wines, but every bit as excellent. We’re honored and thrilled (okay, we’re a bit giddy) to be showcasing a wine made by Greg, and we’re so happy to share it with you today. Just be sure to reserve yours soon. This wine is expected to be very popular.

Santa Barbara is a wine region that I’ve had great fun exploring. Happy Canyon is a tucked away, sun-drenched grape paradise where coastal influences and copious sunshine make for some great Sauvignon Blanc!

This tasty Sauvignon Blanc hails from Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara. We see where it gets that name! Apparently, it’s where happy grapes come from. And, you know what? This outstanding entry from Brewer-Clifton put a big smile across our face. Try this SB from a Wine Spies newcomer and you’ll be grinning from ear to ear too.

This Sauvignon Blanc has a pretty pale straw color with pristine clarity. The nose gives a very clean and varietally-correct impression with notes of grapefruit, citrus, melon, straw, wet limestone and mango. The wine comes through on the palate as well with crisp, bright fruit with driving flavors of apple and grapefruit. Here too is tropical fruit, like passionfruit as well as citrus like tangerine. It’s exactly what you want from an S.B., with bright and lively acidity that has enough mouthfeel to leave it balanced. It exits quickly and agreeably from the palate. This is a fresh and charming wine that could either get the party started or hang out for the main course - Try it with spicy food, such as a homemade coconut milk green Thai curry.