Calera Mt. Harlan Mills Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 (750Ml )

Calera Mt. Harlan Mills Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 is a remarkable expression of terroir and winemaking expertise. Crafted by the iconic Calera Wine Company, this Pinot Noir is sourced from the Mills Vineyard, one of the highest and most unique vineyards in California’s Mt. Harlan AVA. With an elevation of around 2,200 feet, the vineyard’s limestone-rich soils and cool climate conditions create an ideal environment for growing Pinot Noir. The 2016 vintage captures the essence of this exceptional site, offering a wine that is both elegant and profound, reflecting the distinctive characteristics of the vineyard and the vintage.

Taste and Flavor Profile

This Pinot Noir is a symphony of flavors, delivering a complex and layered profile that evolves with every sip. The palate is greeted with a rich tapestry of red fruit flavors, including ripe cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, intertwined with subtle notes of pomegranate. These fruit elements are complemented by earthy undertones of forest floor and mushroom, adding depth and intrigue. The wine also showcases a touch of spice, with hints of clove, cinnamon, and black tea that enhance its complexity and structure. This balance between fruit, earth, and spice makes it an exemplary representation of Pinot Noir from a unique terroir.

Aroma & Bouquet

On the nose, the Calera Mt. Harlan Mills Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 offers an alluring bouquet of aromas. The wine opens with fragrant notes of ripe red berries, particularly cherry and strawberry, followed by subtle floral hints of rose petal and violet. These aromas are accompanied by earthy tones of wet stone and a whisper of oak, adding complexity and inviting you to explore its depth. The bouquet is both expressive and refined, setting the stage for the wine’s intricate flavor profile.

Smooth & Finish

The texture of this Pinot Noir is silky and elegant, with a smooth mouthfeel that glides effortlessly across the palate. The wine’s tannins are finely integrated, providing structure without overwhelming the delicate flavors. The finish is long and graceful, with lingering notes of red fruit, spice, and a touch of minerality. This extended finish enhances the wine’s overall sophistication, making it a pleasure to savor from start to finish.

Craftsmanship and Distillation

Calera Wine Company’s commitment to craftsmanship is evident in every bottle of the 2016 Mills Vineyard Pinot Noir. The wine is made using traditional winemaking techniques, with minimal intervention to allow the vineyard’s unique characteristics to shine through. The grapes are hand-harvested, and fermentation is carried out with native yeasts, followed by aging in French oak barrels. This meticulous approach ensures that the wine remains true to its origins, capturing the essence of the vineyard and the vintage.

How To Enjoy

To fully appreciate the complexity and depth of this Pinot Noir, it is best enjoyed in large Burgundy glasses that allow the wine to breathe and reveal its full range of aromas and flavors. Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes before serving can also help to open up its bouquet and enhance the tasting experience.

Food Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This Pinot Noir is a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. It complements roasted poultry, such as duck or turkey, as well as pork tenderloin and lamb. The wine’s earthy and fruity notes also make it a great match for mushroom-based dishes, truffle-infused pasta, or grilled salmon. For a cheese pairing, try it with soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, which harmonize with the wine’s smooth texture and subtle acidity.

Who Is It For?

The Calera Mt. Harlan Mills Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 is perfect for wine enthusiasts who appreciate nuanced and terroir-driven Pinot Noir. It’s an ideal choice for those who seek a wine with complexity, elegance, and a true sense of place. Whether you’re a seasoned Pinot Noir lover or someone exploring the variety for the first time, this wine offers a memorable and sophisticated experience.

Who Is It Not For?

This wine may not appeal to those who prefer bold, full-bodied reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel. Its delicate and refined nature, while a hallmark of great Pinot Noir, might not satisfy those looking for more intense, fruit-forward flavors or heavier tannic structure.