Mount Harlan (AVA)
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It takes great resolve to plant vineyards in Mount Harlan’s rugged terrain. Fortunately for the wine world, a ‘terroirist’ named Josh Jensen took on the challenge in search of California’s equivalent to Burgundy. Located in a remote high-altitude section of San Benito County’s Gabilan Mountains, the 7,400-acre appellation has less than 100 acres under vine. The vines all grow on limestone soil reminiscent of Burgundy, which is the area’s defining characteristic. The elevation of Mt. Harlan begins at 1,800 feet, although the vineyards are much higher, averaging closer to 2,200 feet. Their lofty perch allows a river of cool air currents to stream unencumbered into the region from Monterey Bay. The climate is cool and almost desert-like, keeping the vines stressed and yields low. This has made Mr. Jensen’s Calera Wine Company, the appellation’s only winery, justly famous. Calera also grows Chardonnay and Viognier, although it is Pinot Noir that keeps the winery on the elite list of great California producers.

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In the southern Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Georgia vineyards are small and few, yet the establishment of the Upper Hiwassee Highlands could bring much more.  [>] continue


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BLUE BOOK PROFILES

Blue Book Taste Profiles for the Mount Harlan AVA

Pinot Noir

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Pinot Noir: You're beautiful...a goddess...but so exasperating! Loving you is like worshiping an unfaithful temptress!  [>] continue

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The AppellationAmerica database identifies 17 wines labeled with the Mount Harlan designation.

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Q: What wineries are based here ?
Q: What other wineries source fruit here ?
There are no other wineries that source fruit from this appellation
Q: What are the overlapping appellations ?

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