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 2021 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a textbook example of the fine wines that come from grapes grown near our coastal boundaries. 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.

Grapes for this bottling were harvested from Sept. 5 to Oct. 7, 2022. The Pinot Noir was handpicked and hand sorted in the field and at the winery. Berries were 100% destemmed, with whole berries placed in the fermenter. The fruit was cold soaked for 5 days prior to initiating fermentation. After fermentation finished, the grapes were gently pressed and the resulting wine was aged nine months in 46% new French oak barrels. Bottling was done on Aug. 2, 2023.

Our Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir displays a unique and specific regionality. This wine is distinctly coastal, with bright, buoyant acidity that sets it apart from wines made from our warmer sites. It is made to be enjoyed from the time of its release, either with food or as a lovely aperitif. In the 2022 vintage, aromas of rose petals, ripe cherries, blueberries and sandalwood waft from the glass, accompanied by notes of vanilla, cinnamon and plum. The entry is smooth and ripe, with a slightly spicy mouthfeel that is elegant and balanced. This wine finishes long and light on its feet.

Sunny days early in the 2022 growing season in Sonoma County led to an early budbreak that began in February. A cold, hard frost that followed threatened the young buds, but proper frost protection limited the damage. The remainder of the spring and summer were quite mild, allowing for steady development and ripening. Harvest began early because of the early budbreak. Warm days in the second half of August and into September allowed the grapes to fully ripen. Yields were lighter than average. Fruit quality was stellar, with smaller berry and cluster sizes, leading to concentrated and flavorful wines.

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.