Merry Edwards, Russian River Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County, California, 2023

Overview of the Wine
Merry Edwards Winery was founded in 1997 and produces critically acclaimed terroir-driven Pinot Noirs and Sauvignon Blanc using site-specific viticulture in the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast appellations. Over two decades, Merry assembled a stellar collection of vineyards and with her meticulous attention to detail crafted Pinot Noirs of immense depth, elegant structure and exceptional longevity. Her Sauvignon Blanc is among the most sought after in the world.

Now a Certified California Sustainable Winery, the brand entered a new chapter after Merry’s retirement. Merry’s handpicked successor, Winemaker Heidi von der Mehden, and Winery President Nicole Carter have taken up exactly where Merry left off and will continue to make wines treasured by legions of Merry Edwards’ fans well into the future.

Whether planted to Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc, all of Merry’s grape sources are characterized by enduring commitment, respect for the land, family ownership and site-specific viticulture. With exceptional Russian River Valley grapes, Merry Edwards is able to produce her highly acclaimed wines using gentle, traditional, labor-intensive winemaking practices.

The core of this wine is composed of grapes from Ted's oldest block of Pommard and Swan Pinot Noir planted in 1989. Rounding out the blend is some additional Pommard fruit from a section established several years later, along with a touch of 12-year-old Dijon 115 and 667. Lauren Klopp now assists her dad with caring for this precious vineyard. She has embraced farming seriously, losing sleep whenever growing conditions are not completely perfect! It's wonderful to witness the evolution of another dedicated generation. 

Winemaker
Merry Edwards

Grape / Blend
Sauvignon Blanc

Origin
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
We began making our Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc in 2001, and we have lovingly reproduced this delicious wine each vintage since. Winemaker Heidi von der Mehden follows specific protocols, including fermentation in French oak barrels and twice-weekly lees stirring, to craft this aromatic, lush bottling.

The nose of the 2023 vintage features fragrant tropical aromas of white pineapple, passionfruit, mango and guava, with subtle hints of plumeria, lemon curd and lime zest. The palate is clean and bright, with accents of ruby red grapefruit, honeysuckle and ripe melon followed by a burst of crisp, refreshing acidity.

95 Points - Meridith May, Tasting Panel magazine, July 2025
Aromas of pineapple, guava, and gardenia. Lemon curd, pink grapefruit, and tangerine blossom form a delicate, creamy wave across the palate. Tropical flowers such as gardenia and plumeria play alongside honeyed pears, dotted with a salty, crisp seashell finish.

Product Size: 750ml