Merry Edwards Winery Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Sonoma County, United States

Vintage:2020 (Current)

2019 (Past) |

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Merry Edwards Winery Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2020
  • JS 93
  • JD 93
  • WE 92
  • D 92

Reviews

Decanter 92 Points October 2023, Jonathan Cristaldi

"Winemaker Heidi von der Mehden says the aim is for red fruit and earth notes coupled with brighter acidity and brighter tannins, and this 2020 release showcases many of those qualities. Leads with crunchy red fruits all laced with cedar spices, and there are plenty of fresh, earthy pine forest notes to remind us we’re on the Sonoma Coast, where vineyards are surrounded by fog-soaked woodlands. Medium- to full-bodied, it’s undoubtedly a fuller expression of Pinot Noir laden with black cherry, cocoa nibs and an orange peel freshness framed by ironstone minerals, bay laurel and sagebrush."

Wine Enthusiast 92 Points February 2023, Jim Gordon

“This broad and plummy wine offers abundant red and black fruit flavors, a smooth texture and good underlying balance. Moderate acidity and tannins give a little bite that perks up the considerable strawberry and black plum flavors.”

Jeb Dunnuck 93 Points August 2022, Audrey Frick

“The 2020 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is ripe with raspberry candy, crushed rose petal, and turned earth. The tannins in the 2020 are a touch more present and emerge on the finish, and it also has more warmth. Drink this over the next 10 years.”

JamesSuckling.com 93 Points April 2022, James Suckling

“Aromas of spiced cherry, plum and fresh mint. Medium-to full-bodied with silky tannins. An interesting, well-balanced mix of fresh red and black fruit and savory spice. Good concentration.”

Overview

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.

Our 2020 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir reflects the nature of its coastal growing area. Cool evening fog wafts in from the ocean during the early evening and recedes gradually by noon, leaving behind cool, refreshed vines ready to bask in the sun. This wine, a blend of grapes from multiple vineyards, is a true representation of the marine-influenced region, where the environment allows us to leave the grapes on the vine long enough to develop abundant aromas and deep flavors.

Winemaking

Fully destemmed, berries are cold-soaked for seven days. The 2020 vintage aged in 20% new French oak for ten months, allowing the wine time to rest on the lees, gaining depth and mouthfeel. This regime has led to a Pinot Noir of great balance, foretelling of a long life ahead.

Tasting Notes

The inviting nose offers up scents of Santa Rosa red plums, cassis, dried sweet figs and pomegranate backed by sandalwood and hints of tea rose. Bright and exciting on the palate, the entry begins with firm tannins and complex layers of red raspberries, bergamot tea, dried herbs and rose petal notes. Refreshing acidity carries the wine throughout the finish.

Food Pairing

A perfect match with the Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is an over-the-top charcuterie board. Artisan cured meats, your favorite local cheeses and freshly baked baguettes, olives, nuts, dried fruits, pickled vegetables, roasted garlic.

Technical Information

Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir

Wine Alcohol: 14.5%

Bottling Date: August 2021

New Oak: 20%

Aging: Aged sur lie 10 months