2007 Calera, Selleck Vineyard Pinot Noir, Mt. Harlan

Even better is the 2007 Pinot Noir Selleck Vineyard, perhaps the finest Pinot ever made by Calera. This 4.8-acre vineyard planted in 1975 has a much warmer southwest exposure than some of the estate’s other sites. Only 411 cases were produced of this compelling Pinot Noir. Sassafras, black cherry, raspberry, plum, pomegranate, cedar, and underbrush aromas are accompanied by a full-bodied, ripe wine with beautiful acids, an intense underlying minerality/terroir character, and a long finish. The 2007 Selleck is slightly less evolved than the Jensen, but it is an impressive Pinot that should age effortlessly for 10-15+ years. Kudos to Josh Jensen for producing this remarkable group of wines! This may be the strongest group of wines Calera has produced in many years. From their less expensive whites through the generic and single vineyard Pinot Noirs, this remarkable portfolio showcases this idiosyncratic terroir isolated on Mt. Harlan. For starters, Calera has once again made the finest Aligote in America. Tel. (831) 637-9170; Fax (831) 637-9070

Vivid ruby. Darker and more powerful in style than the Jensen, offering aromas and flavors of blackberry, bitter cherry and licorice, with notes of rose and herbs adding complexity. Coats the palate with ripe dark fruit flavors, which are given energy by notes of blood orange and smoky minerals. Gains liveliness and brighter red fruits with air and finishes on a suave, spicy note, with excellent length.