2010 Calera Pinot Noir Central Coast

The 2010 Pinot Noir is gorgeous. There is an immediacy to the fruit that is quite striking. Juicy dark berries, flowers and spices flesh out on the inviting finish. This isn't as compelling as the 2009, but it is awfully close. The only problem with the 2010 is going to be finding it, as production is down a whopping 50%.

The 2010 Pinot Noir is gorgeous. There is an immediacy to the fruit that is quite striking. Juicy dark berries, flowers and spices flesh out on the inviting finish. This isn’t as compelling as the 2009, but it is awfully close. The only problem with the 2010 is going to be finding it, as production is down a whopping 50%. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018. 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