# Mt Harlan de Villiers Pinot Noir (2019)

- **Producer:** Calera Wine Company
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €59
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, black cherry, raspberry, strawberry, red cherry, vanilla, cedar, cloves, mushroom, forest floor, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

The Calera Mt Harlan de Villiers Pinot Noir 2019 is a 100% Pinot Noir from the Mt. Harlan AVA in California's Central Coast. The Mt. Harlan AVA was established by Calera Wine Company, the sole winery within its boundaries. Founder Josh Jensen was inspired by the limestone soils of Burgundy and sought to replicate this unique terroir in California. The de Villiers Vineyard, part of the Calera estate, benefits from these distinctive limestone soils. The 2019 vintage experienced a cool, wet spring followed by a moderate summer, allowing for extended grape maturation on the vine.

## Interesting facts

- Calera is the only winery in its own AVA: Mt. Harlan.
- Founder Josh Jensen sought limestone soils, inspired by Burgundy.
- The winery is named after an on-site lime kiln.
- Calera has been recognized among the top 100 wineries globally.

## Food pairing

The medium-plus body and complex nature of this Pinot Noir make it versatile. Its structure can stand up to richer proteins like duck and lamb, while its fruit and savory notes complement earthy mushrooms and herbs. Acidity helps cut through the richness of sauces and proteins.

## Wine making process

The Calera Mt Harlan de Villiers Pinot Noir 2019 is produced using 100% Pinot Noir grapes. Fermentation is carried out with native yeasts and includes whole cluster fermentation. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes an 18-month aging period in French oak barrels, with 30% of the barrels being new and 70% neutral. The harvest for this vintage took place from late September through October.