Calera

This priced-to-sell appellation blend gives hints of what the single-vineyard expressions can do in a more accessible manner. Aromas of pomegranate, green peppercorn and oregano decorate the nose. The palate shows baked plum and strawberry flavors as well as Calera's telltale showing of terpene-laden herbs like bay leaf and marjoram.

For all the vineyard-designated offerings that Calera offers, you might expect that their macro appellation Pinot Noir would be a step down in quality. I would say quality isn’t the question. It is always good to have a wine that is great to drink immediately upon release, and this one does that job with typical Calera attention to detail. Bright fruit, well chosen barrel spice and cool climate acidity combine to make a food-friendly Pinot that is ready to go and won’t break the bank. We can always use more of that.