Merry Edwards is considered one of the first influential female winemakers in California, beginning her career in the early 1970s when she was winemaker at Mount Eden Vineyards. She is known for her groundbreaking work in clonal selection, helping identify and develop Pinot Noir clones that significantly influenced quality across California vineyards. In 2015, Merry brought on Heidi von der Mehden as associate winemaker and beginning in 2018, Merry handed the title of winemaker over to Heidi.
The Pinot Noirs are just as gorgeous as ever but, recently, it's been their Sauvignon Blanc that has brought a new generation to their doorstep. A distinctive and highly praised Sauvignon Blanc with a richer, more complex style than typical California versions. Over the past two decades, this aromatic, barrel-aged Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc has become among the most sought after and critically acclaimed in California. The combination of techniques used to produce this age-worthy style results in a wine of balance, richness and aromatic complexity. A substantial percentage of the Sauvignon Musqué clone adds floral notes and rich body, complementing the underlying herbal nature of the base wine, all barrel fermented in French oak.
WINE SPECTATOR 94 POINTS - "A distinctive white, with fleshy mango, peach and apricot flavors at the core, plus notes of candied ginger, lemon curd and candied kumquat. Floral details, herbal accents and a drizzle of honey linger on the finish. Drink now."
JEB DUNNUCK 92 POINTS - "A pale silver/yellow color, the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley has softer floral notes of melon, dewy flowers, quince, pink grapefruit, and vanilla. It’s elegant, fruity, and supple, with lots of elegant charm and an inviting feel as well as a softly rounded texture. Drink 2025-2030."
The Pinot Noirs are just as gorgeous as ever but, recently, it's been their Sauvignon Blanc that has brought a new generation to their doorstep. A distinctive and highly praised Sauvignon Blanc with a richer, more complex style than typical California versions. Over the past two decades, this aromatic, barrel-aged Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc has become among the most sought after and critically acclaimed in California. The combination of techniques used to produce this age-worthy style results in a wine of balance, richness and aromatic complexity. A substantial percentage of the Sauvignon Musqué clone adds floral notes and rich body, complementing the underlying herbal nature of the base wine, all barrel fermented in French oak.
WINE SPECTATOR 94 POINTS - "A distinctive white, with fleshy mango, peach and apricot flavors at the core, plus notes of candied ginger, lemon curd and candied kumquat. Floral details, herbal accents and a drizzle of honey linger on the finish. Drink now."
JEB DUNNUCK 92 POINTS - "A pale silver/yellow color, the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley has softer floral notes of melon, dewy flowers, quince, pink grapefruit, and vanilla. It’s elegant, fruity, and supple, with lots of elegant charm and an inviting feel as well as a softly rounded texture. Drink 2025-2030."
