2007 Jensen Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
Late spring frosts stunted early shoot growth in parts of the vineyard, which led to smaller yields. The cool summer allowed for a long growing season and ample hang time, the grapes full of color and concentration. Winemaker Mike Waller’s first vintage at Calera, the full-bodied 2007 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard is characteristically savory and herbal within a bigger framework of structure and body weight, reflecting a ripe, robust year with plenty of tannin. The structure has guided it to a beautiful place of sinewy grip and length, the texture refined enough to go another 10 years or more. Drink now through 2036.
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Robert Parker
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
All smoothness, richness and breadth, this nicely maturing wine is still fresh and delicious yet turning mellow, more rounded and packed with earthy-spicy complexity. Balsam, rose petals, cinnamon and cloves evoke the sense of a Manhattan cocktail. Drink or hold.
The 2007 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard is one of the more fruit-driven, open-knit wines in this vertical. Juicy and up-front, the 2007 is drinking well today and should continue to hold for at least another decade. The style is forward and silky, with soft tannins that add to an overall impression of creaminess. Readers who enjoy more mature Pinots might want to give the 2007 a few more years in bottle, as is still quite young.
Bright ruby. Sexy aromas of raspberry and blackberry preserves, potpourri, allspice and mocha, with bright minerality adding vivacity. Sappy, penetrating red berry compote flavors are given spine by zesty acidity and become spicier with air. An exotic candied rose note carries through an impressively long, juicy and precise finish. This is delicious now but balanced to reward patience.
About the producer
Discover the wines from Josh Jensen’s pioneering estate in the Mount Harlan AVA, crafting elegant Pinot Noir from limestone soils in California