Calera Pinot Noir Mt. Harlan "Jensen Vineyard" 2020
(Central Coast, California) - [JS 97] [WS 94] [WE 92]

Notes From the Winemaker:
Calera’s Mt. Harlan Vineyards are located in the Gabilan Mountains 25 miles east of the Monterey Bay. The site was chosen for its limestone soils and ideal climate. At an average elevation of 2,200 feet it is among the highest and coolest vineyard sites in California.

At more than 40 years old, the coveted old vines of Jensen Vineyard have produced a stunning wine that offers depth, elegance and luxurious complexity. Aromas of wild strawberry, rhubarb, pomegranate and black cherry leap from the glass beckoning a first sip. On the palate, the flavors turn deep and dark, with layers of blueberry, juicy blackberry and cocoa building to a long, dramatic finish.

After a cool winter, the 2020 growing season began with spring rains that replenished our soils on Mt. Harlan and set the stage for an excellent vintage. After a late-March budbreak, we enjoyed temperate, sunny days and cool nights throughout spring and summer, allowing the grapes to slowly ripen, while preserving the bright natural acids that we prize. With no significant heat events, the 2020 vintage produced age-worthy wines with enticing aromatics, lovely freshness and purity, and beautifully delineated varietal flavors.

Aged 18 months in French oak 30% new, 70% neutral

14.5% abv

Ratings & Reviews

97 Points - James Suckling:
A more tannin-driven pinot with dried strawberry and lemongrass character. Medium-bodied with firm tannins and a fresh and vivid finish. Hints of honey and cedar. Made from 50-year-old vines. Drink or hold. (Nov 2023)

94 Points - Wine Spectator: 
Shows nice contrast, with a fairly broad black cherry and mulberry fruit core, which is eventually harnessed through the finish by racy red tea and mineral notes. Offers generous lively, savory chaparral notes that dart around, lending a mouthwatering edge. Delivering lovely range and character, this should develop nicely in the cellar. Best from 2025 through 2035. 1,000 cases made. – JM (Nov 2023)

92 Points - Wine Enthusiast:
Ripe and heavily extracted on the nose, this bottling offers dried plum, wild juniper and strong leather aromas on the nose. The palate is packed with wild chaparral herb flavors that enliven the baked red fruit and spicy leather flavors. - Matt Kettman (Dec 2023)