Merry Edwards is like her wines – an intricate blend of artistic vision and scientific training, with a passion for the natural environment.
With five decades of winemaking experience, Merry has earned the universal respect of winemaking peers, grape growers and scholars alike. Her pioneering work in clonal research has forever changed the Californian wine industry, and her UCD clone 37, or “Merry Edwards Selection”, has been a star performer in the Russian River valley since she established it in 1975.
At home in the Russian River Valley since 1977, Merry Edwards has meticulously explored its hills, pockets, slopes and hollows, discovering small sites which, with the right rootstock, clone and farming techniques, produce exceptional quality grapes. Merry Edwards has been Certified Sustainable since 2017 and all wines are vegan friendly.
This assemblage of different Pinot Noir vineyards within the Russian River Valley area showcases the art of blending.
Made from a blend of Pinot Noir Clones: UCD37, 667, 777, 115, Swan, Martini, Pommard, Windsor Gardens Field Selection.
Grapes were 100% destemmed.
10 months ageing in 52% new oak from Doreau, D&J and F. Freres Coopers.
Warmly opulent and sophisticated, this is an intense, inviting Pinot. It’s packed with ripe cherry, strawberry fruit leather, brambleberry and blueberry. This fruit expression is heightened by anise, earthy notes, well-integrated toasty oak, and a whisper of violets and white flower blossoms. Upon opening, the highly structured palate shows an energising interplay between bright, lively acidity and generous, silky tannins. It then broadens and mellows into a lingering, satisfying finale. Aromas follow through, providing a dynamic flavour spectrum and a peppery finish.
Pairs beautifully with a farm-fresh egg frittata with mushrooms.
Robert Whitley (Wine Review Online): 95 Points
This weighty Pinot Noir opens on the nose with an intriguing floral note, followed on the palate by expressive layers of cherry and raspberry. With firm but beautifully integrated tannins, it is an impressive example of a powerful Pinot built for the long haul yet ready to drink now.
Wine Enthusiast: 94 Points (Virginie Boone)
Supple in tannin and earthy in black tea, this appellation wine is delicious, with depth and freshness. Lively acidity boosts a core of dark cherry, pomegranate and cherry—the fruit well contrasted in nutmeg and clove.
Jamie Goode: 92 Points
Antonio Galloni: 92 Points
Bright and juicy, the 2018 captures all of the natural radiance of the Russian River while retaining terrific nuance and vibrancy. Ripe red/purplish fruit, rose petal, spice and mint all race out of the glass. Perfumed floral notes resonate on the finish. The 2018 is so delicious – it is the sort of bottle that is opened and then immediately finished!
Russian River Valley, California, USA
100% Pinot Noir
Natural Cork
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