In 1971, Josh Jensen's mentors decided to grow the pinot noir and chardonnay in limestone-rich soil, similarly like in the Côtes d’Or. He spent two years searching for limestone throughout California. Three years later in 1974, he purchased a high-elevation parcel of land, 100 miles south of San Francisco. He landed himself a deposit of seven million tons of limestone. The property is located near Mt. Harlan in San Benito County. In 1975, Josh and Calera released their first wine. 1000 cases of zinfandel, produced from purchased grapes. He spent making Calera wines on rented space for two years and grew his first 24 acres of pinot noir in three different fields.
The Selleck Vineyard (5 acres), Reed Vineyard (5 acres), and Jensen Vineyards (14 acres). He eventually took on a great mission in improving wines all across America. His property scattered all over the Central Coast brought in a new style to winemakers and connoisseurs. He ended up winning numerous awards. In 2013, he was named the Pinot Pioneer by Calera wine Spectator. The Burgundy-style Pinot Noir really revolutionized and made establishments for Calera winery and vineyards on Mt. Harlan. He is the main reason for making Calera one of the top Pinot Noir producers in California. Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir is a wine lovers dream. Calera Central Coast is made from one of the best vineyards in Central Coast. The Pinot Noir has ripe black cherry flavors, orange zest, raspberry, and sandalwood. Rich and dark fruit flavored which have luscious flavors of blackberry that mellow the tannins with a smokey and oaky flavor. The wine is aged in 100% French oak barrels - 10% of them new. This wine makes an excellent holiday gift!