Calera Pinot Noir Central Coast is a California red wine produced by Calera, a pioneering winery founded in 1975 by Josh Jensen high in the Gavilan Mountains of California's Central Coast. The name "Calera" is Spanish for "lime kiln," a nod to the limestone-rich soils Jensen sought for Pinot Noir cultivation. Sold in 750 ml bottles and available by the case of 12, this wine sources grapes from select vineyards across the broad Central Coast appellation, which spans from Santa Barbara in the south to the San Francisco Bay Area in the north.

Composed of 100% Pinot Noir, this wine is aged for 10 months in 100% French oak with 10% new barrels and 90% neutral oak, imparting subtle complexity without masking the wine's inherent fruit character. It opens with alluring aromas of ripe blackberry, cedar, and nutmeg, while the supple and energetic palate reveals flavors of black cherry, cola, and vanilla gliding across silky tannins to a long, focused finish. Vibrant natural acidity adds freshness and structure, making this a nuanced and approachable expression of the Central Coast terroir.

Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir has earned strong critical recognition, scoring 93 points from Wine Enthusiast, 91 points from Wine & Spirits, and 90 points from Wine Advocate. At 14.5% alcohol by volume, it pairs well with salmon, roasted duck, grilled chicken, mushroom dishes, and soft cheeses.