Merry Edward Winery

2011 Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc

I recently visited the Merry Edwards Winery in Sebatopol, in Sonoma. Merry Edwards, one of California’s first woman winemakers, began her career in 1974 and was the winemaker at many top California wineries. Merry has also consulted for numerous wineries, large and small, in California and Oregon. In 1997, Merry founded Merry Edwards Winery, with a focus on producing wines with a sense of place from Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast, and also manages five estate vineyards. A state-of-the-art winery facility was opened in 2008 were tastings are hosted to educate visitors about Merry Edwards wines and site-specific viticulture.  While the main focus is on Pinot Noir with two regional blends and six vineyard designates, in 2001 a barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc blend was added to the portfolio.

2011 was a challenging year for Sauvignon Blanc across all of Sonoma County due to a very cool growing season.  Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc yields were was down by about 20%. The 2011 vintage contains more than 50% fruit from vines 25 to 35 years old. Sauvignon Musqué or Savagnin Musqué fruit as it is known in Bordeaux, makes up about 20% of the blend.

The aroma is bursting with tropical fruits, guava fig, and ripe pear. This solid fruit core is wrapped in a mantle of subtle, creamy oak, with just a touch of minerality. The flavors of pink grapefruit are clean, crisp and filled with mouthwatering acidity with a smooth finish. The wine is perfect with seafood and light pasta dishes.