The 2009 Pinot Noir Reed Vineyard is one of the more direct wines in this lineup. There is an exotic quality to the spice, orange peel and tobacco notes that is deeply intriguing, but in the end the fruit is more of a soloist than an orchestra. None of the Calera wines can be called straightforward, but the Reed is one of the most simple. Still, within the broader context of California Pinot Noir, it is fabulous – just not as fabulous as its stable mates! Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Readers who want to experience the finest Pinot Noirs being made in California should put Calera at or near the top of their lists. The 2009s are simply breathtaking in their beauty. I am not sure why I was so blown away by the estate’s 2009s, as the entry-level 2009 Central Coast Pinot I reviewed last year provided more than enough clues as to the quality of the rest of the lineup. Based on that wine, I should have known what to expect. Congratulations to proprietor Josh Jensen and his entire team on these magnificent, utterly compelling wines. Organic farming, native fermentations and minimal racking are some of the choices that inform the Calera wines. Tel. (831) 637-9170; www.calerawine.com