2024 Merry Edwards - Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley (750ml)

Merry Edwards founded her namesake winery in 1997 in Sebastopol, California, arriving with decades of winemaking experience and a reputation for elevating Russian River Valley Pinot Noir to national acclaim. Though she has since retired, winemaker Heidi von der Mehden and winery president Nicole Carter continue her hands-on approach, tending small parcels and favoring native yeast fermentations that let each vineyard site express itself clearly in the glass.

The fruit for this bottling comes from cool, fog-influenced sites within the Russian River Valley AVA, where morning marine air and afternoon sun allow Sauvignon Blanc to ripen slowly while retaining bright acidity. A small portion of Sauvignon Musqué clone adds aromatic lift. Grapes are hand harvested and gently pressed, then fermented partly in neutral oak barrels with periodic lees stirring to build texture without masking the wine's varietal character.

The glass opens with tropical aromas of mango, pineapple, and passionfruit alongside white peach, jasmine, and a hint of candied orange peel. On the palate, the wine is medium bodied and creamy, its ripe fruit balanced by lively acidity and a clean, dry finish. Pour it alongside grilled shrimp, a citrusy green salad, or fresh goat cheese for a bright, satisfying match.