Another highlight among these new releases, the 2009 Pinot Noir Selleck Vineyard is made in a much more fruit-driven style than some of the other Pinots in this lineup. It boasts stunning depth and richness, but in the classic Calera style that never abandons a sense of structural finesse. Juicy dark berries, hard candy, flowers and herbs wrap around the rich, textured finish. This is yet another dazzling Pinot from Calera. Selleck is a site with a south/southwestern exposure. 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