WTN: 2003 Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir

.375 ml bottle for $14.75 at The Wine Merchant, Raleigh.
14.5% alcohol
Burgundy color sliding toward purple. Nearly opaque. Very inviting from the first sip. A surprising burst of dark plum and skins from purple grapes. Not the finesse of a couple experiences with Calera single-vineyard wines. More a cheap thrill. A little of the pine needle or herbal touches show up; finishes a bit hot. This could probably stand up to barbeque or grilled meats or braised short ribs. Okay for the price.

[Jenise]

"Cheap thrill"--great line. Very different from the Calera 'Jenson' I had about a year ago from the same vintage, which was mature and delicate.

I really loved the 2004 Calera Mills Vineyard Pinot Noir which I said on another forum I thought would blow away most California or Oregon Pinot Noirs and that I would rate 93 or 94. I also said who knew San Benito County was capable of producing such fine wine? (probably a lot of Calera and Josh Jensen fans.) The only other time I've tasted a Calera wine was at a wine event at a restaurant in Raleigh where we received small pours. I do have a bottle of Calera Jensen Vineyard at home, possibly a 2004, but may save it another year. I should start buying some more because I think they need a little time in the cellar and I want to have more to look forward to drinking. From most reports I've read, the single-vineyard wines do have that refinement, delicacy, finesse, balance or whatever that this wine lacked. (But it was still enjoyable for a different type experience.)