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 been making Flax Vineyard Pinot Noir in Russian River Valley since 2005. The property is located on Westside Road in a famed portion of the appellation often referred to as The Miracle Mile for the outstanding grapes that are grown there. The classic Pommard clone selected for planting is a good match for this warmer, northern end of the valley. Flax consistently provides grapes that become classically elegant, food-friendly wines, and the 2018 vintage is no exception.

The wine displays beautiful red garnet and purple hues. Layers of vanilla, jasmine, cherry cola and bright blood orange fill the nose. Ripe and concentrated, the mouth has luscious and focused tannins that are layered with cherries, smoky oak notes and a perfect core of acidity to hold the structure throughout a long finish. The aging potential for this wine is unmistakable.

The grapes are harvested early, as this is the warmer northern edge of the valley. Pommard is the single clone planted at this site, a most suitable pairing for the terroir.

Longtime Merry Edwards Winery employee Jill Schlegel was inspired to make her Chicken Liver Mousse after tasting the 2018 Flax Pinot Noir. Food-loving Flax, with its bright floral and citrus fruit notes, focused tannins and juicy acidity, is a perfect foil for this silky, smooth starter. Serve the wine and mousse with slices of crusty sourdough bread along with a selection of cheese and charcuterie for a decadent holiday meal appetizer.

Find this recipe at merryedwards.com.