Merry Edwards Winery was founded in 1997 and produces terroir-driven, single-vineyard wines from 80 acres of estate vineyards in the Russian River Valley. The winery is known for crafting Pinot Noirs of immense depth, elegant structure and exceptional longevity as well as its aromatic, barrel-aged Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc, which is among the most sought after made in California. A single-vineyard Chardonnay and Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc round out the portfolio.

Merry Edwards Winery has long produced a Russian River Valley appellation blend Pinot Noir that highlights the best characteristics of the AVA. That is also the goal in producing an Anderson Valley appellation blend Pinot Noir.

The grapes for this wine come from vineyards located in the warmer Boonville area, from organic sources in Philo and the cool Deep End, making it a true reflection of the primary grape-growing zones of the valley.

Vineyard sources include:

• Carney Ranch: in the warm area near Boonville
• Dach Vineyard: a certified organic and biodynamic vineyard located at Domaine Anderson's winery home in Philo
• Pinoli Vineyard: in the sunny but cool Deep End of the valley where the fruit can hang long and ripen fully

Grapes were hand-picked and hand sorted in the field and at the winery. 100% destemmed with whole berries added to the fermenter and cold soaked for three days. Aged 10 months in 42% new French oak and bottled in July 2023.

On the nose, notes of blue fruit, stone fruit, ripe wild berries and strawberries mingle with hints of forest floor and a savory, meaty component. The completely balanced entry features pretty floral, herbal and spice accents of oregano and thyme, showing good depth but still light on its feet. Notes of anise linger on the fine finish.