Calera Pinot Noir Mt. Harlan "Mills Vineyard" 2021
(Central Coast, California) - [WS 95] [WA 93]

Notes From the Winemaker:
Calera’s Mt. Harlan Vineyards are located in the Gavilan 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.

Tasting Notes:
Planted in 1984, at an elevation of 2,200 feet, Mills Vineyard has yielded an effortlessly complex wine that strikes a lovely balance between elegance and energy, with alluring aromas of raspberry, cherry, bramble and sweet saddle leather. On the palate, lush layers of plum and ripe blackberry are underscored by supple tannins, with a hint of tobacco leaf adding nuance and sophistication to the robust finish.

Production Notes:
The 2021 growing season began with very little winter rainfall on Mt. Harlan followed by moderate spring temperatures that led to a typically timed budbreak. While the temperate weather led to a uniform bloom and set, overall yields on Mt. Harlan were down significantly. Throughout the remainder of spring and summer the weather continued to be mild, resulting in a somewhat later-than-normal veraison, with harvest commencing just six weeks later. Reflecting the combination of low yields and excellent weather, our 2021 wines display beautiful depth and concentration, with refreshing acidity and full fruit expression.

Varietal Content: 100% Pinot Noir

Aged 18 months in 100% French oak 30% new, 70% neutral

14.5% ABV

Ratings & Reviews

95 Points - Wine Spectator:

"A dense version, with a well-structured core of blackberry, black cherry and mulberry paste flavors that bring energy and tension, while apple wood, potpourri and rose hip notes flood through on the finish, adding length and range. The last echo is of a refined chalky minerality. Best from 2025 through 2037. 440 cases made." - James Molesworth (September 2024)

93+ Points - Wine Advocate:

"Produced from own-rooted vines planted in 1984 that yielded less than a half-ton per acre, the 2021 Pinot Noir Mills Vineyard offers a red-fruited bouquet supplemented with baking spice and underbrush aromas. The palate is tensile and energetic, markedly more lifted and high-toned than many of its darker, more lumbering counterparts in the lineup. The finish is intensely focused and inward at this stage, dominated by tight, fine-grained tannins that will benefit greatly from time in the cellar." Drink 2026-2033. - Matthew Luczy (October 2024)