2018 Calera "Jensen" Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir (1.5L)

Professional Reviews

Notes

In 1971 Josh Jensen returned to California from Burgundy with a mission: to find a cool-climate site, with limestone soils, to grow world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. After years of searching for the perfect parcel of land, Josh found Mt. Harlan, a rugged limestone outcropping perched at 2,200 feet above Monterey Bay. The property is isolated, wild, and spectacularly beautiful. Over the next few decades, Josh planted vines on the various aspects of the property. The plantings were largely focused on Pinot Noir, but he also experimented with Chardonnay, Viognier, and Aligoté. Original vines from 1975 at Selleck, Reed, and Jensen still produce to this day. Considered by many to be the “grand cru” parcel on the estate (though I think the entire property should be held in that regard), Jensen is a multifaceted piece of land with four separate undulations, each with a different aspect and slope. The soils are rich in limestone and produce the most dense and brooding wine on the mountain. Again, the vines here are original plantings from 1975. The wine is dark, deeply fruited, smoky, and powerful. Turned earth, leaf litter, perhaps even morel mushroom. Substantial structure promises a long life in the cellar. (Ryan Woodhouse, K&L Domestic buyer)