A true Pinot Noir rock star is the 2007 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard. From a 13.8-acre vineyard planted in 1975, and cropped at 1.46 tons of fruit per acre, the Jensen cuvee spent 17 months in Francois Freres cooperage, of which 30% was new. One of the bigger production efforts (1,113 cases), it exhibits a deep ruby/purple-tinged color as well as a sweet, explosive nose of ripe raspberries, black cherries, spice box, earth, and chalk. Deep, rich, and full-bodied, it is the sexiest, most seductive wine of all these 2007 Pinots. A round, generous, intense red that cascades over the palate with no hard edges, it is capable of 15-20 years of cellaring. 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

Made in a more forward style than it used to be, Calera’s ’07 Jensen appeals for its lush raspberry, cherry, bacon, vanilla and sandalwood flavors. The acidity is just fine, and the tannins are soft and intricate. Lovely now, with a brief decant, and should develop for 6–8 years.——S.H.(12/15/2010)—— 91