2016 Calera Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir Mills Vineyard
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Calera’s Mt. Harlan Vineyards are located in the Gabilan Mountains 25 miles east of the Monterey Bay. The site was chosen for its limestone soils and ideal climate. At an average elevation of 2,200 feet it is among the highest and coolest vineyard sites in California.
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Wine Profile
Production Notes
Varietal Content: 100% Pinot Noir; Cooperage: 100% French oak - 30% new, 20% second vintage, 50% neutral
Winemaker Notes
In 2016, Mills Vineyard yielded a robust and expressive Pinot Noir that marries lovely dark berry layers of black currant and raspberry, with sophisticated notes of black tea, mushrooms and moist earth. On the palate, smooth, flowing tannins accentuate the rich fruit, while adding to a lush, concentrated finish.
Production
After several years of drought, 2016 brought a return to normal winter rainfall levels, which replenished the Mt. Harlan vineyards and set the pace for a slightly early, but near-ideal, growing season. A warm spring led to a relatively early budbreak, followed by warm, sunny summer. While summer provided abundant sunshine for ripening the grapes, mild nights ensured that they ripened perfectly, with excellent acid and sugar levels. As a result, our 2016 Pinot Noirs are lush and balanced, with beautifully articulated flavors.
Wine Specs
Wine Specs
Vintage
2016
Varietal
Pinot Noir
Appellation
Mt. Harlan
Vineyard Designation
Mills Vineyard
Harvest Date
September 8 - October 7, 2016
Sugar
24.6° Brix at Harvest
Acid
0.62 g/100 ml titratable acidity
pH
3.71
Aging
17 months in barrel
Fermentation
13 days fermentation at 63°F, 89°F, 66°F
Alcohol %
14.5
Wine Enthusiast
93
Wine Review Online
93
Wine & Spirits
94