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.

The Olivet Lane Vineyard, planted in 1975, is considered to be a Russian River Valley gem that still consistently produces stellar wines. After many years of working in the vineyards with her father, Robert, second-generation Alexia Pellegrini is now at the helm, taking great care to ensure that quality fruit production will continue into the future.

Grapes for this bottling were harvested on Oct. 13, 2023. The Chardonnay was handpicked and hand-sorted in the field and at the winery. Berries were 100% whole-cluster pressed and 100% barrel fermented. After fermentation finished, the wine was aged sur lie eight months in 41% new French oak barrels. Bottling was done on Aug. 5, 2024.

The nose is filled with fragrances of high-toned lemon, freshly buttered toast, white flowers and wet stone. The entry is bright and inviting. On the palate, mouthwatering acidity is accompanied by a creamy texture and hints of pineapple, lemon tart and brioche, with sustained spice notes on the finish.

After many years of drought, we welcomed a full dose of rain in 2023. The rains lasted throughout the spring, providing the vines with plenty of moisture to grow a healthy canopy and full crop load. It also helped to moderate temperatures, keeping frost at bay. The summer was very typical for the Russian River Valley, with cool nights and coastal fog that came in every evening, barely burning off by noon. These cooler temperatures led to delicate floral and citrusy aromas in our Chardonnay, with mouthwatering acidity.

Dungeness crab dip makes a sumptuous appetizer pairing with this rich Chardonnay.