Calera Wine Co.

Owner(s)	Josh Jensen
Web site	www.calerawine.com

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Proprietor Josh Jensen was exposed to wines while growing up in the small town of Orinda, California, by Dr. George Selleck who was a wine collector and friend of Professor Amerine at UC Davis. Jensen began sniffing and tasting wines when he was 13 years old and by the time he was 21, he had tasted all the great Bordeaux and Burgundy wines.

While attending college on the East Coast, he became even more interested in wine. After living in Europe for five years after college, and trying to find a career path, he decided to pursue the wine business. He went to Burgundy and knocked on the door of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti where he picked grapes for 10 days in 1970. The following year he met Jacques Seyesses (Domaine Dujac) and picked grapes there in 1971. He returned to California, determined to find what his Burgundian mentors had told him was the key ingredient, which was limestone. All the great vineyards of the Côte d'Or in Burgundy are in soils rich in limestone.

Upon returning to California, he went to the State Bureau of Mines office and looked at maps for limestone. After two years, his search led him to San Benito County. While searching, he met Dick Graff at Chalone. Their vineyards were planted on limestone-derived soils called calcareous soils. After tasting a 1971 Pinot Noir from barrel at Chalone, he realized it could be done here.

In the late 1800s, laborers working in the Gavilan Range built a stone kiln on Mt. Harlan, using it to bake limestone dug out of the slopes and hauled down the mountain in horse-drawn carts. Around 1910, the kiln was abandoned when the internal combustion engine made remote wood-fired kilns obsolete. The kiln now sits in the center of the Calera Estate and is depicted on the label.

With its 2005 vintage wines, Calera Wine Company is celebrating its 30th vintage. In 1974, when Josh Jensen (affectionately called "Generalissimo" and "Mr. Pinot") first planted his vines on a remote property in the Gavilan Mountains 18 miles north of Chalone, he was among a select few pioneers at the time who were attempting to farm Pinot Noir in California. In 1974, only 500 Pinot Noir vines were planted and hand-watered, but in the following year, the first vineyard blocks were established. Josh Jensen’s remarkable story was first told in detail in 1993 in the first edition of the book, The Heartbreak Grape, A Journey in Search of the Perfect Pinot Noir, by Marq de Villiers. A completely revised and updated version was published in 2006 (McArthur & Company, paperback, $10.99). Jensen’s saga is an inspiration for anyone hoping to follow a passion for Pinot Noir and only now, after thirty-two years, has his heartbreaking efforts found vindication. Pinot Noirs from Calera can hold their own to the best from Burgundy.

In 1975, Jensen cleared enough land to plant the initial three Pinot Noir vineyards, located approximately a 50 minute drive from the winery site. The vineyards were Jensen (named after his father, Stephen), Selleck (named after Dr. George Selleck who first introduced him to wine), and Reed (named after his initial business partner). Mills (named after John Everett Mills who built the infrastructure on the property on Cienaga Road for a mining operation - these retaining walls were to become part of Calera’s gravity-flow winery), and the Chardonnay and Viognier plantings followed in 1984. The Jensen Vineyard is nearly 14 acres, Reed is 4.4 acres, Selleck is 4.8 acres, and Mills is 14.4 acres.

The initial vineyard plantings were on St. George rootstock using 6' x 10' spacing, with trellis wines, drip irrigation and cane-pruning, all viticultural techniques that were relatively new for the time. The most recent Pinot Noir planting is the Ryan Vineyard (named for Jim Ryan, the vineyard manager since Calera began) which is 13.1 acres and was planted in 1998 and 2001.

The original four vineyards were planted with a special selection that Jensen does not name sourced from the nearby Chalone Vineyard. Chalone had 18 vines that years earlier had come from buds brought in from a top vineyard in Burgundy and Jensen wanted some of this "real McCoy" Pinot Noir stock. This homogeneity, along with consistent vineyard management (Jim Ryan has been in charge of the now-organic vineyards since 1979), and winemaking, make the Calera block-designated Pinot Noirs an interesting example of terroir expression. The Calera wines typically have a distinct mineral backbone and age easily a decade or two.

By 2006, Jensen had 83.6 acres planted on his property which consisted of 648 acres (the first two parcels purchased in 1974 and 1977) and 440 adjacent acres. The winery, the world’s first and only completely gravity-flow winery, was built on seven different levels into a hillside. The first vintage of estate Pinot Noir was in 1978, all of 700 cases in half-bottles, and was the initial Calera wine made at the winery. Calera is the only winery in the Mt. Harlan AVA (he can also use the Central Coast AVA and San Benito AVA designations as well). Curiously though, the vineyards are in the Mr. Harlan AVA, but the winery technically is not, so he cannot use “estate bottled” on the label.

Calera's vineyards are located at 2,200 to 2,500 feet above sea level and are cooler than almost all vineyard locations in the North Coast (Josh can prove it with University California Berkeley's 30-year temperature averages for all California towns and cities).

The Calera Pinot Noirs are probably the closest to the Burgundian idiom of all Pinot Noirs in California. The wines are shy and reticent upon release, with the best drinking window between 5 and 20 years after the vintage. Jensen abhors what he calls “Smasher-Blasters,” California Pinot Noir fruit bombs that “are mostly one-dimensional, simple but potent beverages that will merely lose their fruit, their main if not their only appeal, with the passing years and just turn into … . expensive mud.” His vision for the perfect Pinot Noir is well reflected in the eloquent style of his wines and is one “that is perfectly balanced on the cusp of richness and complexity, of fruitiness and subtlety, and is neither one nor the other.”

In 2007, Mike Waller joined Calera as winemaker. He is a graduate of University of California at Davis and has held an assistant winemaking position at Chalone Vineyard. Fermentations are native, significant whole clusters are used, and about 30 percent new oak on all wines. Each day's picking becomes a separate fermentation lot and barrel-aging lo, which are then blended at bottling when certain parts are selected. Press and free run wines are combined. 30% of French oak barrels are new for each of the six single vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noirs and the Mt. Harlan Chardonnay. The wines are not racked for fear of losing color and mid palate flavors. More than 90% of the single vineyard Pinot Noirs are in their individual barrels for 15 to 16 months. Mild fining and no filtration

Calera wines are sold on the website and through retail distribution. Current annual production is 31,000+ cases. The portfolio includes seven different bottlings of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Aligoté, and Viognier (Jensen petitioned the U.S.D.A. to import Viognier cuttings in 1973 when it did not exist in this country). 32% of production is estate grown.

Articles About Calera Wine Co.

Reviewed Wines

NV Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay

2200 feet elevation. Native yeast fermentation, aged 10 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · This wine is less about fruit and more about acidity and salinity. Flavors of lemon, white peach and roasted nuts. Impressive balance. Very good. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2018 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., $100. Calera selection. Whole cluster fermented, native yeast. Aged in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose rises up over time revealing wonderful aromas of dark berries, plum, dried beef, clay and wine cellar. Inviting flavors of purple grape and pomegranate framed by supportive fine-grain tannins and a good cut of acidity. The finish is drenched in ripe dark fruits and is amazingly long. The fruit is definitely ripe but not overly mature. Even better when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle when some spice shows up and the long finish continues to amaze. Very age worthy. Score: 95. Reviewed September 19, 2021 ARTICLE »

2018 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., $100. Whole cluster and native yeast fermented. Aged in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose rises up over time revealing wonderful aromas of dark berries, plum, dried beef, clay, and wine cellar. Inviting flavors of purple grape and pomegranate framed by supportive and fine-grain tannins and a good cut of acidity. The finish is drenched in ripe dark fruits and is amazingly long. The fruit is definitely ripe but not over-mature. The wine was even better when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle when some alluring spice shows up and the long finish continues to amaze. Very age-worthy. Score: 95. Reviewed August 19, 2022 ARTICLE »

2017 Calera Central Coast Vin Gris of Pinot Noir

13.9% alc.,1,000 cases, $22. Sourced from Flint Vineyard in San Benito County. Grapes were harvested at lower Brix, specifically to produce a dry Vin Gris. Aged 4 months in 100% stainless steel. · Moderate salmon color in the glass. Aromas of yellow peach, cranberry, strawberry, blood orange and algae are echoed in the flavors in a refreshingly crisp and vibrant style that is a superb example of this Pinot Noir genre. Score: 90. Reviewed June 9, 2018 ARTICLE »

2017 Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay

14.5% alc., pH 3.29, TA 0.66, 1,900 cases, $50. 9.4 acres of own-rooted vines first planted in limestone in 1984 along with a 1998 newer block. Calera selection, some vines own-rooted. Yield 2.7 tons per acre. Harvest Brix 24.5º. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Inviting aromas of white peach, lemon curd, spice and arrowroot. Soft and gracious in the mouth with flavors of yellow stone fruits, apple, and pineapple. There is some appealing chalkiness with a trace of tannins showing up on the dry finish. Score: 91. Reviewed June 19, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Central Coast Chardonnay

14.4% alc., pH 3.42, TA 0.67, 13,416 cases, $25. Sourced from eight of the Central Coast’s finest vineyards including Sierra Madre, Bien Nacido, Lone Oak, Laetitia, Talley and Pedregal. Average harvest Brix 24.5º. Barrel fermented, native yeasts, 100% malolactic fermentation. Aged 10 months without racking in French oak barrels, 10% new, 90% neutral. · Moderate golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Well-appointed scents of lemon, lemongrass, yellow applesauce and melon. Slightly viscous in the mouth with pleasing flavors of lemon, yellow apple and biscuit. Streamlined, with energetic acidity and oak way in the background. Score: 90. Reviewed February 23, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.60, 14,720 cases,$30. Grapes for this wine are sourced from some of the finest vineyards on the Central Coast including Solomon Hills, Sierra Madre, Bien Nacido, Garys’, Laetitia and Pedregal vineyards. Average harvest Brix 24.5º. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 10% new and 90% neutral. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Enchanting aromas of dusty cherry, violets and rose petal initially, but with time in the glass, oak takes over and char aroma appears. Mid weight plus flavors of black cherry, purple berry and cola with an overcoat of oak. Plenty of well-ripened fruit stuffing that carries through the finish, but the aggressive oak imprint detracts. Score: 87. Reviewed February 23, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay

14.5% alc., 1,800 cases, $50. Vines planted in 1984 and 1998. Aged 15 months on the lees in French oak barrels, 30% new, 20% second vintage and 60% neutral. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. The nose is flat out gorgeous, featuring aromas of white peach, honey, buttery brioche and dried seaweed. Very satisfying flavor intensity and length, in a riper, full-bodied style with luscious flavors of Golden Delicious apple and lemon. One doesn’t think oak at all when drinking this wine. An under appreciated offering from Calera more known for Pinot Noir. Score: 93. Reviewed June 9, 2018 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera de Villiers Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

13.95% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.67, 1,220 cases, $65. 15.6 acres planted in limestone soil at 2,200 feet in 1996. 1,290 vines per acre, yield 1.09 tons per acre. Calera selection. Harvest Brix 24.0º. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 20% second vintage and 50% neutral. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. A complex nose offers scents of black cherry, fertile earth and mushroom. Mid weight flavors of earth-kissed purple and black fruits are charming and infused with only a hint of oak-driven notes of dark chocolate and vanilla. Silky in the mouth, with a good cut of acidity and a satisfying, slightly drying finish. More fruity and revealing when tasted the following day from a previously opened and recorked bottle. Always the boldest and most tannic of the vineyard-designated bottlings. Score: 93. Reviewed June 19, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.63, 375 cases, $75. 5.94 acres planted at 2,200 feet in limestone soils in 1975. 726 vines per acre, yield 1.0 tons per acre. Calera selection. Harvest Brix 25.4º. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 20% second vintage and 50% neutral. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromatically pleasing, with scents of fresh, dark cherry and boysenberry, spice and modest toasty oak. Dark red cherry and purple berry fruits are featured in this mid weight styled wine that is sleek in the mouth and finishes long with waves of sweet strawberry and boysenberry fruit. The wine is exquisitely balanced with tannins that are more reserved than the de Villiers bottling. Much more engaging when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A superb wine. Score: 94. Reviewed June 19, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.71, TA 0.63, 375 cases, $75. Yield 1.0 tons per acre. Harvest Brix 25.4º. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Aromatically pleasing, with scents of fresh dark cherry and boysenberry, spice and a modicum of toasty oak. Dark red cherry and purple berry fruits are featured in this mid-weight styled wine that is sleek in the mouth and finishes long with waves of strawberry and boysenberry fruit. The wine displays exquisite balance. Much more engaging when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A superb wine. Score: 94. Reviewed August 29, 2020 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.69, TA 0.63, 1,000 cases, $95. 13.6 acres planted in limestone soils in 1975 at 2,200 feet elevation. 726 vines per acre yield 0.9 tons per acre. Calera selection. Harvest Brix 24.5º. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 20% second vintage and 50% neutral. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Engaging aromas of plum, blackest cherry, and sous bois. Gracious in the mouth, with a mid weight core of black cherry and black raspberry fruits with deft oak dressing. Firm, but not intrusive tannins and noticeable cut on the the finish that goes on and on. There are several features of this wine that make it special including the seductive texture, the energy imparted by good natural acidity, the purity of fruit flavor, the subtle savory thread, and the extremely long, grand cru finish. Much more appealing when sampled the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. An exceptional wine. Score: 95. Reviewed June 19, 2019 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., pH 3.69, TA 0.53, 1,000 cases, $95. Yield 0.9 tons per acre. Harvest Brix 24.5º. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Engaging aromas of plum, blackest cherry and sous bois. Gracious in the mouth, with a midweight core of black cherry and black raspberry fruits with deft oak dressing. Firm, but not intrusive tannins and a noticeable cut on the finish that goes on and on. There are several features of this wine that make it special including the seductive texture, the energy imparted by good natural acidity, the purity of fruit flavor, the subtle savory thread, and the extremely long, grand cru finish. An exceptional wine and always the Prima Donna among the Calera wine stable. Score: 95. Reviewed August 29, 2020 ARTICLE »

2016 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 1,000 cases, $95. Calera selection. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Engaging aromas of plum, blackest cherry, and sous bois. Gracious in the mouth, with a mid weight core of black cherry and black raspberry fruits with deft oak dressing. Firm, but not intrusive tannins and noticeable cut on the the finish that goes on and on. There are several features of this wine that make it special including the seductive texture, the energy imparted by good natural acidity, the purity of fruit flavor, the subtle savory thread, and the extremely long, grand cru finish. Much more appealing when sampled the following day from a previously opened and recorked bottle. An exceptional wine. Reviewed June 2019. Score: 95. Reviewed September 19, 2021 ARTICLE »

2015 Calera de Villiers Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $60. Vineyard planted in 1996, 1997, and 2001. Yields 0.39 tons per acre. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10% second vintage and 60% neutral. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose offers penetrating aromas of black fruits, fertile earth, toast, burnt tobacco and a hint of vanilla. The wine's texture is seductively smooth and the mid weight plus flavors of blackberry, black raspberry and cassis are enviable. The fruit is spirited and fresh and the wine is seamlessly composed. Wines from this vineyard always taste like this and that reflects deft winemaking. Score: 93. Reviewed June 9, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.63, 397 cases, $60. Produced from relatively young vines planted in 1998 and 2001. At 2,500 feet, ryan is the highest vineyard on Mt. Harlan. Average harvest Brix 24.0º. Yields in 2015 0.45 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10% second and 60% neutral. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Highly nuanced nose offering aromas of blackberry, blackest cherry, pomegranate, fertile earth, bramble and toasty oak. A flood of enthusiastic boysenberry and blackberry fruit flavors saturate the palate. A hint of spice and toast add interest. The fruit is supported by very fine-grain tannins and the wine finishes long, dry and lip-smacking. Score: 92. Reviewed February 23, 2019 ARTICLE »

2015 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.66, 309 cases, $70. Vines planted on their own roots in 1984 and 1998. Average harvest Brix 24.0º. Yield in 2015 0.32 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10% second, 60% neutral. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Highly appealing aromas of blueberry-pomegranate, black cherry, spice, fertile topsoil and roasted coffee beans. Delicious core of black cherry, blackberry and pomegranate fruits are accented with spice and tobacco oak. Impressive harmony and grace with reigned-in tannins. The finish is exceptionally long. Score: 93. Reviewed February 23, 2019 ARTICLE »

2015 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 165 cases, $75. Vineyard planted in 1975 (4.4 acres) and 2012 (1.54 acres). Yield 0.59 tons per acre. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10% second vintage and 60% neutral. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Wines from this vineyard tend to be more red-fruited and elegant. Aromas of red cherry, spiced berry, dried rose petal and burnt tobacco reflect the whole cluster inclusion. The mid weight flavors of dark red fruits are accented with a hint of spice and caramel. The fruit is succulent yet refined and the overall impression is graciousness. Slick in texture, with a really long, mesmerizing finish. Score: 94. Reviewed June 9, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 495 cases, $90. Vineyard planted in 1975. Yield 0.44 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10% second vintage and 60% neutral. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. Enticing aromas of black cherry, exotic spices and underbrush. The first taste tells you this wine is special. The mid weight essence of black cherry fruit is long and intense, yet refined. The fine-grain tannins provide the perfect backdrop and the satiny texture is mesmerizing. The finish offers a good grip of acidity and uncommon generosity. This wine is always the Prima Donna among the Calera wine stable. Score: 96. Reviewed June 9, 2018 ARTICLE »

2015 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.72, 125 cases, $95. Vines planted in 1975 on a tiny 4.8-acre vineyard. Yield in 2015 0.35 tons per acre. Average harvest Brix 24.0º. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new, 10% second, 60% neutral. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. This wine displays the ripest fruit profile in the 2015 lineup tasted, featuring aromas and flavors of black raspberry, black cherry and blackberry. The fruit flavors are really delightful although a little too ripe for me to fully embrace. The wine has impeccable harmony, with very fine-grain tannins, an appealing earthiness, a compliment of underlying oak, and a big, fruitladen finish. Score: 93. Reviewed February 23, 2019 ARTICLE »

2015 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.72, 125 cases, $95. Yield a meager 0.35 tons per acre. Average harvest Brix 14.0º. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. This wine displays a ripe fruit profile, featuring aromas and flavors of black raspberry, black cherry and blackberry. The fruit flavors are very delightful although a little too ripe for me to fully embrace. The wine has impeccable harmony, with fine-grain tannins, an appealing earthiness, a compliment of underlying oak. and a big fruit-laden finish. Score: 93. Reviewed August 29, 2020 ARTICLE »

2014 Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay

14.4% alc., 386 cases, $N/A. From Calera’s 10.4-acre Chardonnay Vineyards. Vines planted in 1984 and 1998. Calera selection. Yield was 0.54 tons per acre. Barrel fermented with native yeasts, 100% malolactic fermentation, aged 13 months in stainless steel and French oak barrels, 30% new. · Moderately light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas of lemon, apple, seasoned oak, buttery pear, and brioche. Fresh and mildly flinty, with a clean, brisk envelope of citrus, pear and apple flavors. Sleek and balanced, with a refreshing, chalky finish. The wine picks up more body and charm over time in the glass. Score: 92. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Calera de Villiers Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.63, 1,018 cases, $N/A. 15.6-acre vineyard planted in 1997 in limestone soils. Yields 1.07 tons per acre. Native fermentation, aged 19 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of cherry reduction sauce and blackberry jam lead to a mid weight plus style wine with a luscious core of purple fruits. The fruit is extraordinarily bombastic but monotone at present. There are substantial tannins that need time to integrate. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine had more oak and less fruit on the nose, but the lush mouthfeel was appealing. This wine is disjointed now and one can only speculate about its future. Score: 90. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., pH 3.43, TA 0.63, 898 cases, $N/A. From a 13.1-acre vineyard that was planted in 1998 and 2001 in limestone soils. Yields .97 tons per acre. Native fermentation. Aged 19 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Very earthy aromas of clay combined with black fruits and spice. Bold in size, with an array of succulent purple fruits including grapes and boysenberries. Long and hedonistic in sap, with daunting tannins and a big, fruit-filled finish. Tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle with the same results, and I believe this wine needs at least two more years in bottle to be friendly. Score: 90. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., pH 3.39, TA 0.68, 327 cases, $N/A. From the 4.8-acre Selleck Vineyard that was planted in 1975. Yields .93 tons per acre. Native fermentation, aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Enthralling aromas of cherry, rose petal, white pepper and scrub brush. Intriguing and complex, with flavors of well-spiced black cherry and black raspberry fruits along with significant oak compliment. Plush on the palate with a very long finish. The tannins are firm but not foreboding, the bright acidity keeps the fruit fresh, and the alcohol is well integrated. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, there was less oak overlay apparent and the finish was other worldly. Score: 94. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.48, TA 0.65, 789 cases, $62. From the 14.4-acre Mills Vineyard planted in 1984 in limestone soils. Own rooted Calera selection. Crop yield 0.81 tons per acre. Native yeast fermentation, aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. A very compatible blend of fruit and savory aromas with black cherry standing out. Amazing charge of black cherry fruit on the palate, yet discrete in weight, with balanced tannins and a raspberry coulis infused finish of notable length. Approachable now, but will surely last for years. Score: 93. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.64, 336 cases, $70. Sourced from the 4.4-acre Reed Vineyard that was planted in 1975. Yields were 1.14 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfiltered. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Aromas and flavors of cherry, strawberry, blueberry and dark raspberry blend harmoniously with nutty oak in this mid weight wine with more approachability. Impressive attack and persistent finish. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the blueberry, cherry, spice and nutty oak flavors were captivating. Easily recognizable as coming from Reed Vineyard. Score: 92. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.64, 1,088 cases, $88. From the 13.8-acre Jensen Vineyard that was planted in 1975. Yields 1.12 tons per acre. Native fermentation, aged 17 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfiltered. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, rose petal, smoke and toasty oak rise from the glass. Relatively light in color, but substantial in flavor, featuring mid weight plus flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and blackberry. The gorgeous fruit seems to last and last and thoroughly illuminates the senses. There are still firm tannins that need time to soften but the wine is hard to refuse at this early age. The sensual mouthfeel adds even more appeal, and like all great wines, the finish is grand. Score: 94. Reviewed January 16, 2017 ARTICLE »

2011 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 214 cases, $71. This 4.8-acre vineyard was planted in 1975. Yield 0.64 tons per acre. Native yeast fermentation. Aged 18 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Unfiltered. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. This wine speaks of the earth, with aromas of loamy soil, iron and oak and flavors of earth-kissed black cherry, dark raspberry, edible flower, and spice. Light to mid weight in style, with mildly firm tannins and complimentary oak in the background. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine was still enticing and impressive for its balance, but the fruit aromas had still not shown up on the nose. Score: 91-92. Reviewed August 18, 2015 ARTICLE »

2010 Calera 35th Anniversary Central Coast Vin Gris of Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $16. 60% San Ysidro Vineyard (Santa Clara County) and 40% Doctor’s Vineyard (Monterey County). · Deep strawberry color in the glass. Scent of red berries and red plums. Drinks more like a lighter-weighted Pinot Noir than a Rosé with fairly hearty flavors of red berries, cherries and subtle herbal oak, finishing with on a dry, crisp note. Source: website and retail. Decent. Reviewed July 1, 2011 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. 2500 feet elevation. Aged 18 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · Lovely aromas of fresh cherries, rose petals and spice. Earthy, with flavors of black cherries and dark berries. The muscular, chalky tannins stand out. Good Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. Aged 17 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · A more serious wine of tremendous interest. Aromas of cherries, blueberries, sandalwood, spice and sandstone. Delicious middleweight flavors of dark cherries and berries. Very smooth on the palate with less bitter tannins than the Ryan and more depth and length on the finish. Exceptional. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 200 cases. · Moderately dark reddish-color in the glass. Aromas of ripe berries, red roses, sassafras and a slight green note. Luscious essence of fresh black raspberries with an incredibly intense and long finish. A little herbal in character with firm, dry tannins. Very good. Reviewed July 21, 2013 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $24, glass closure. Sourced from seven vineyards in San Luis Obispo, San Benito, Santa Clara and Monterey counties (33% Latetitia Vineyard). Native yeast fermentation, aged 11 months in 10% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of cherry glaze, dark red berry jam and black olives. A gentle, lighterstyled wine with bright cherry fruit on the modest mid palate attack, finishing with notes of cherry skins, oak, herbs and sandalwood. Well-mannered tannins for easy drinking, but enough structure to match up with hearty fall foods. Good (+). Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay

13.9% alc., 1,035 cases, $28. From organically grown grapes. Yields were 1.65 tons per acre. Aged 10 months in 30% new French oak barrels. 100% MLF. · Light straw in color. Aromas of citrus fruits, apple and peach. Very tasty and complex flavors of spiced pears, limes, lemons, brioche and oak. The toasty oak in the background adds rather than detracts. Very clean, crisp and understated with a slightly creamy texture. Beautifully balanced for longevity. Incredible value. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Mt. Harlan Viognier

13.9% alc., 468 cases, $30. From a 6.1-acre vineyard that is organically farmed. Yields of 1.25 tons per acre. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels. 100% MLF. · Light straw color in the glass. Lovely perfume of tropical fruits including papaya with notes of lemon curd and honeysuckle. Moderately rich with plenty of glycerin intensity and minerality. Tasty composite of pineapple, roasted apple, poppyseed and white peach leading to a clean, richly fruited finish. Very impressive and the best example of this varietal currently being produced in California. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera de Villiers Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 1,460 cases, $35. 15.6-acre vineyard, yields 2.06 tons per acre. Made from organic grapes. Native fermentations, aged 16 months in 30% new French oak barrels. Unfiltered. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of ripe plum, blackberry and raisin with hints of damp earth and oak. Moderately rich array of very ripe purple and black fruits with a hint of Hoison sauce and Asian spice, backed by modest tannins. The most approachable wine in the 2009 lineup. Good. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 2,318 cases, $40. 13.7-acre vineyard, yields 2.33 tons per acre, aged 18 months in 30% new French oak barrels. Unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Shy aromas and flavors of dark cherries and raspberries. The appealing fruit is buried in overwhelming tannins. Good. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 1,599 cases, $45. 16.3-acre vineyard, yields 1.55 tons per acre. Aged 18 months in 30% new French oak barrels. Unfiltered. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Muted aromas of dark red cherries and berries and oak spice. Generous fruit intensity starring black cherries, finishing with good fruit presence. Very muscular tannins currently overwhelm the fruit. Good. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 281 cases, $52. 4.4-acre vineyard, yields 1.02 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in 30% new French oak barrels. Unfiltered. · Light reddish color in the glass. Enticing aromas of strawberries, red cherries and sandalwood. More vineyard terroir evident that the other vineyard-designated Pinots in this vintage. Flavorful core of cherries, brown spice and a hint of vanilla wrapped in balanced tannins. Not the fruit intensity of the other Pinots in this vintage, but the long aromatic finish leaves an enticing trail of cherries. A feminine wine in a dominatrix way. Very good. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 1,277 cases, $73. 13.5-acre vineyard, yields 1.34 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in 30% new French oak barrels. Unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple hue in the glass. Restrained aromas of darker berries and subtle oak. Very pretty core of discretely concentrated black cherry fruit buried in flamboyant tannins. A captivatingly long finish exceeds that of any other Calera Pinot in this vintage. The future looks very bright but this wine will demand patience. Very good. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 420 cases, $78. 4.8-acre vineyard, yields 1.21 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in 30% new French oak barrels. Unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely scented with aromas of blueberries, blackberries and clay. Fat in the mouth with generous flavors of black cherries, blueberries and boysenberries backed by muscular, firm tannins. The wine has an extra depth of flavor at the end just when you think it is finished. Very good. Reviewed December 8, 2012 ARTICLE »

2008 Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., $24, glass closure. Grapes sourced from Monterey County, San Luis Obispo County, Santa Clara County and San Benito County (50% from Scheid and Laetitia vineyards). 50% whole cluster, native yeast fermentation, aged in 10% new French oak barrels for 11 months without racking. · Moderate dark red color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, brier, oak and pipe smoke. A brooding wine with little uplifting qualities, offering flavors of sweet black cherries, black raspberries and plums, finishing with a tarry, herbal, earthy presence. More dirt and oak than fruit and pretty ordinary. Decent. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Calera de Villiers Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 1,460 cases, $35. Yield 2.06 tons per acre. Native fermentation, aged 16 months in 30% new French oak barrels, bottled unfiltered. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color in the glass. Riper fruit profile on the nose offering scents of black currants, black cherries and Asian 5- spice. Moderately intense on the palate with flat out delicious flavors of black cherries and dark plums with an appealing minerality and earthiness underlain with a hint of citrus. Very smooth in the mouth with fine-grain tannins showing up on the richly endowed finish. Even more strikingly aromatic the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, tasting of darker Pinot fruits. An ideal pretense to seduction. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 972 cases, $40. Yield 0.8 tons per acre. Native fermentation, aged 16 months in 30% new French oak barrels, bottled unfiltered. · Moderate reddishpurple color in the glass. Plenty to wow over with the ever-changing nose offering aromas of black cherries, boysenberries, baking spice, graham, dried fruits and subtle oak. Crisp and lively on the palate with earthkissed black cherries and raspberries, showing plenty of chewy tannins but enough bright acidity to offset and bring the wine into balance. Needs time to shed its structurally imposing fruit tannins. A touch of heat peaks out as the wine warms in the glass. Very good. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 510 cases, $45. Yield 0.47 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak barrels and bottled unfiltered. · Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Plenty of interest in the nose with scents of dark red berries, sandalwood, seasoned oak, and pastry. Vibrant and amazingly intense on the mid palate attack with flavors of dark red berries and dark red cherries wrapped in gentle, fine-grain tannins. The fruit refuses to give up its presence on the spectacular peacock finish. A touch of heat shows up on the nose and finish, but this seems trivial considering the impressive palate presence of this wine. Outstanding the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., 829 cases, $70. Yield 0.86 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak and bottled unfiltered. · Moderately light in color with mainly reddish tones. Subdued but seductive aromas of dark red cherries and berries, charcoal and spice. Lighter in weight than the other Calera single-vineyard offerings in this vintage and unusually light for Jensen. Flavors of ripe strawberries, red cherries and red raspberries with an appealing spice box accent, enrobed in well-proportioned dusty tannins which peek out on the dry and persistently aromatic finish. Very creamy and soft in texture. Calera’s signature Pinot Noir, deserving of all the accolades one can muster for this vintage. Reviewed November 29, 2011 ARTICLE »

2007 Calera de Villiers Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 631 cases, $35. 30% of the fruit from this relatively young (for Calera) vineyard was de-classified. Yields were a ridiculous .78 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 20% new French oak barrels. · The pleasing aromas trump the flavors. Welcoming scents of plums, berries, brioche and cut flowers. Tart cherry and berry flavors with a short, hot finish. The flamboyant tannins and lively acidity obscure the substantial fruit at this point. Cellar this one for sure. Decent. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 1,847 cases, $40. Yields were 2.45 tons per acre. Aged 17 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · Attractive perfume of red plums, berries, cedar and Herbs de Provence. Moderately light in style featuring redder fruits, earth, meat and stem accents, smoothly textured, with plenty of tannin on the hot finish. Decent. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 943 cases, $45. Yields .84 tons per acre. · The nose is complex and alluring, offering scents of black cherries, caramel, oak vanillin and cut flowers. Restrained and demure dark red fruits have a hint of stem and mushroom, with admirable persistence on the finish. The texture is striking for its sexy silkiness. A little heat lingers in the after taste. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 190 cases, $50. Very low yields of 0.9 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · Lightest in color of the Calera Pinot Noirs in 2007. Terrific nose that really draws you to the wine featuring aromas of red raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, rose hips, tea and balsam. The most delicate and feminine, least tannic, and most approachable Pinot Noir in the lineup offering discreetly concentrated red berry fruit, sandalwood, baking spice and herbal flavors. Very good. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 1,113 cases, $70. 13.5% of the crop was declassified. Yields of 1.46 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · The most vibrant and captivating nose in the lineup revealing an array of high-pitched wild berries, ripe strawberries, and black cherries with a subtle conifer and stem note. Luscious core of fruit echoing the aromas with impeccable balance and a smooth, silky texture. Impressive persistence of fruit flavors on the high-tone finish. A legend in the making. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 411 cases, $75. Yields were 1.36 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak barrels. · Lovely full-on perfume of black cherries, red plums, spice box and roses. Juicy and succulent berry fruit flavors nicely spiced and framed with well-honed tannins and bright acidity. Tastes like the best berry compote you have ever had. A little heat peaks out on the finish, but this is otherwise a very charming wine that is hard to say no to. Reviewed November 24, 2010 ARTICLE »

2006 Calera Mt Harlan Cuvee Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 3,239 cases, $30. Vino-Seal. Primarily Mills with some Jensen and Reed vineyard grapes from younger vines. Aged in 30% new French oak for 14 months. · Cranberries, oak and a touch of alcohol on the nose. Medium-weighted red berry flavors with a hint of oak. A bit short on the mid palate and the very dry finish. Reviewed November 17, 2008 ARTICLE »

2006 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 1,795 cases, $38. Yields were 3.16 tons per acre. 44% of fruit was declassified. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Alluring aromas of black cherries, earth, spice, smoke and subtle oak. A cherry bombast with teeth-coating tannins that are dry and astringent. Very smooth and silky in the mouth. Much better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Patience will be rewarded. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 2,155 cases, $40. Crop yield 3.29 tons per acre (average crop yield for this vineyard over last 10 years is 1.53 tons per acre). Average Brix 25.1º at harvest. Native fermentation. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Potent and seductive aromas of black cherries, black raspberries, spice, white pepper and red hots. Luscious black cherry core which is a bit earthy and kissed by minerals. Plenty of good tannin for the long haul. Rich and mouth filling, persistent, with lively acidity. Perfect in every way. I’m buying a case. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 929 cases, $42. Yields were 3.0 tons per acre. Aged 14 months in 30% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Lightest in color of the 2006 Pinot Noirs. Very charming perfume of redder fruits including strawberries and red currents with a hint of baking spice. Reddest fruit flavors of the 2006 Calera Pinot Noirs and the most elegant and approachable wine of the lineup. Very nuanced with notes of raspberries, pomegranate, forest floor, and minerals with a little steeliness to the finish. Plenty of upfront charm and still drinking beautifully the next day from an opened and re-corked bottle, indicating the potential for longevity. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 2,531 cases, $49. Yields were 3.06 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Brooding stone fruits with a hint of oak char on the nose. More fruity and more appealing nose the next day from an opened and re-corked bottle. Velvety stone fruit core which is a touch earthy but primarily one-dimensional now. Still closed and unyielding, showing more leg, softness and character the next day from a previously opened re-corked bottle. A wine with plenty of charisma that will benefit from a few years in the cellar. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 793 cases, $63. Yields 2.43 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak. Unfiltered. · On the nose there is intense loamy fruit accented by anise and grilled meat scents. Lovely depth and richness of lightly spiced cherry and raspberry fruit on the palate. Rich and full-bodied, yet very smooth with restrained tannins and a finish Hollywood would be proud of. Great scent, great purity and great persistence. Even better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A great cellar candidate although it is hard to say no to now. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera Ryan Vineyard Mt Harlan Pinot Noir

Still a Lolita with a massive structure and healthy tannins, cellar this one for several years and you will be smiling from ear to ear. Reviewed March 23, 2008 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera 30th Anniversary Vintage Mt. Harlan Aligoté

12.8% alc., 54 cases, $28. Aligoté (Al-eego- tay) is the other white grape of Burgundy. Reportedly, its ancestral home is Bouzeron in Burgundy’s Côte Chalonnaise. The grape is noted for producing an austere acidic wine and those in Bouzeron were known to add a few drops of Créme de Cassis to the wine to make it palatable. This was the origination of the cocktail Kir. Actually, if yields are kept low and the wine is vinified appropriately, it can produce a white wine of crisp character. It is most adaptable to limestone-rich soils. Jensen grafted over two rows of Pinot Noir to Aligoté in the Jensen Vineyard as an experiment. This is the first commercial harvest and one of the few wineries to release this varietal in the United States. · I rather enjoyed this wine. The flavors were similar in profile to Riesling with apple, mineral and a little petrol evident. Tropical fruits and butter scents were quite attractive. The acid was well-corralled. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera Mt Harlan Viognier

15.0% alc., 679 cases, $28. · Typical for the varietal with tropical fruits dominating. Perfectly fine with Chinese chicken lettuce wraps. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera Mills Vineyard 30th Anniversary Vintage Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 1,351 cases, $37. Yields 1.3 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Needs air time or decanting to open up. Scents of dark berry jam, briar, oak and grilled meat. Robust jolt of earthy dark fruit attacks the palate, filling the mouth with flavor and finishing with a hint of grapefruit peel. Well-endowed with fine-grained tannins. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera 30th Anniversary Vintage Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 1,351 cases, $40. Average 10 year crop yield from this vineyard is 1.3 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Fabulous intoxicating perfume of strawberry and raspberry jam. I could only shake my head after sticking my nose into this one. Unbelievable! The concentrated flavors echo the aromas. Plenty of vibrant Pinot fruit finds every cranny in the mouth and is pulled into line perfectly by adeptly proportioned t n‘ a. Hey bro, you won’t find a wine like this from Dijon clones. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera Ryan Vineyard 30th Anniversary Vintage Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 1,410 cases, $40. Yields 1.61 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Bold aromas of ripe black cherries and berries with a hint of sweet oak. The most Caliesque of the 2005 Pinot Noirs with flashy and luscious thick fruit tasting of black raspberries, plums, tar and earth. Full and rich on the palate with wellendowed tannins and a vein of fresh acidity. A hearty Pinot that needs hearty food. Still drinking fine the next day from a previously opened re-corked bottle. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera 30th Anniversary Vintage Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 436 cases, $45. Average 10 year yield 1.48 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Intense perfume of dark red plums and cherries with a thin oak cloak. Relatively light compared to the other Calera vineyard-designates and more approachable. Moderately demure red fruits touched by baking spice, cola and oak. Very supply tannins and bright acidic spine. A lovely debutante. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera 30th Anniversary Vintage Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 1,264 cases, $60. Average 10 year yield from this vineyard is 1.51 tons per acre. This vintage 1.4 tons per acre. Average Brix at harvest 24.2º. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak. Unfiltered. · A haunting aromatic profile that is highly nuanced featuring plum, blueberry, black cherry, oak and forest floor. Not as thick or chewy as the Ryan at this stage, showing more silkiness and brightness. Moderate tannins and a refreshing riff of citrus on the dry finish portend a long life ahead. A connoisseur’s Pinot. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera 30th Anniversary Vintage Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 287 cases, $63. Average 10 year crop yield 1.35 tons per acre. Yield in 2005 was 1.19 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Stick your nose in this one and you won’t leave the bright cherry, fresh herb and brioche aromas. Healthy spiced cherry core that is rich and full without being jammy. Very soft and smoothly textured with moderate fine-grain tannins and an endless finish. The alcohol is perfectly integrated. Can you make a California Pinot Noir that is balanced at 15% alcohol? Check this wine out for your answer. This wine was still strutting its stuff the next day from a previously opened re-corked bottle. A showoff. Reviewed May 7, 2009 ARTICLE »

2005 Calera Selleck Vineyard 30th Anniversary Vintage Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 287 cases, $63. Yields 1.19 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 18% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Brooding aromas of dark ripe fruits, raisin and seasoned oak. Ripe, but not overripe spiced cherry and berry core with an earthy bent. The alcohol is well-integrated, the acidity is bright and the mild dusty tannins make for easy drinking. Gets better and better in the glass over time. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2004 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 1,209 cases, $40. Yields were 1.28 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 15% new French oak. Unfiltered. · A wine that displays very overripe fruit aromas and flavors. On the nose, there are scents of cooked and spiced plums, prunes, raisins, porto, and old wood. The generous core of very ripe fruit is wrapped in flamboyant tannins. May soften more in time, but will always be a tannic wine. Decent Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2003 Calera Mt. Harlan Chardonnay

14.0% alc., $25. · A clean nose featuring butter and minerals. Butter, caramel and a little toast are enhanced with brisk acidity and a tangy finish. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2003 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 296 cases, $42. · A very complex Pinot Noir with strawberry, raspberry, cherry, vanilla and spicy oak aromas and flavors. Soft and light as a feather. A feminine wine which is quite showy in its youth and the most drinkable of the 2003s. Still soft and delicious the next day from an opened bottle. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2003 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 729 cases, $43. · Gorgeous perfume of cherries, roses, exotic woods, root beer, spice and toast. Shy cherry, tea and cassis flavors are surrounded by a meatiness and earthiness of great charm. Silky in texture, there is brisk acidity and finegrained tannins on the lingering backend. Still lovely the next day from an opened bottle. A shy charmer that is very seductive. Merci! Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2003 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 835 cases, $43. · The nose is clamped shut but with urging reveals dry cherry, earth, mushrooms, and wet grass highlights. Riper fruit tones dominate the palate, with plum, prune and currant evident. The wine has plenty of structure and healthy tannins on the full finish. Not particularly charming now, but should make a lovely wine over time. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2003 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 207 cases, $52. · Hi-tone cherry, cranberry, black raspberry nose. Rich and deep red fruits enhanced by oak create a pleasant fullness on the palate. Very lovely wine with great persistence and a lengthy finish. A ton of Pinot charisma. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2002 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.67, 799 cases. Yields 0.97 tons per acre. Aged 18 months in 30% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Aromas and flavors of wild berry jam, smoke and oak. Very tasty berry fruit kissed by the earth with a tangy citrus lift on the finish. Still has plenty of dry tannins that should soften more in time. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

2002 Calera Ryan Vineyard 1st Harvest Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 115 cases, $40. Yields were .3 tons per acre. · Aromas of dark fruits, toast and a touch of alcohol. A full mouth of lush dark fruits with plenty of unresolved tannins on the finish. A huge Pinot that drinks like a Cabernet Franc. Needs a steak. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2002 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 1,468 cases, $43. · A bright cherry nose with spice, particularly cardamom. Heady cherry liquor dominates the palate. Seamless like the dress Maria Sharapova wore at the US Open. Terrific in every way. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2002 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 454 cases, $48. · A dusty cherry nose leads to ripe black cherry, mocha and cranberry flavors. Pleasing elegance and a satisfying acid backbone. A good wine with refinement and elegance that is very drinkable now. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2002 Calera Selleck Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., 429 cases, $58. · The shy nose opens with vigorous swirling with dark cherry and berry aromas enhanced by mushrooms and damp earth. Earth also shows in the flavors with toast and ripe plums. The fruit is backward and closed. Great potential here, but don’t even think about drinking this wine for another five years. Reviewed September 2, 2007 ARTICLE »

2000 Calera Jensen Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., pH 3.64, 919 cases, $40. Yields 1.06 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak. · This wine was very slightly corked. It still retained some attractive aromas of dark stone fruits, wild flowers and spice. Very smooth in the mouth with muscular yet soft tannins. Flavors of anise and black tea augment the core of dark fruit which has moderately faded. I would like to taste a bottle that is not corked. Unsatisfactory (flawed). Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

1999 Calera Mills Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.0% alc., pH 3.76, 690 cases. Yields were .86 tons per acre. Aged for 16 months in 20% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Very nice aromatic profile of spiced plums, toast, incense, dark chocolate and old book. Tasty dried dark fruits with a hint of apricot. Grainy with plentiful tannins and a lengthy finish. This wine has held up remarkably well and is a real treat to drink. Very good. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

1999 Calera Reed Vineyard Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 240 cases. Yields were .91 tons per acre. Aged 16 months in 30% new French oak. Unfiltered. · Still great reddish-violet color. Aged bouquet of raisiny fruit, leather, cigar box and a hint of sherry. Delicate dark red fruit is overwhelmed by tannins. Soft in the mouth with hints of cinnamon, truffle and earth. Still has some charm and will appeal to fans of older Pinot Noir. Drink up, the tannins outweigh the fruit. Decent. Reviewed October 15, 2009 ARTICLE »

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