Warrens’ Hill

— Estate Vineyard —

In 2009, Merry leased this beautiful hilltop vineyard site from Nancy and Louie Sanchietti. The property was originally planted by Warren Dutton and had been producing stellar Pinot Noirs under various winery labels for two decades, but it was apparent that this 20-year-old vineyard was in decline. When the decision was made to replant, Merry selected cuttings that had been saved by Lee Martinelli when the beloved Windsor Gardens Vineyard was pulled out to make way for housing. Windsor Gardens Pinot Noir had been a fan favorite early in the winery’s history and Merry was delighted to be able to bring it back to life. New plants were propagated and grew up in a nursery until their installation in spring 2012.

With its rebirth, the vineyard was given a new name ― Warrens’ Hill. Warren Dutton had been a friend of Merry’s for years and a respected figure in Russian River Valley. Warren Arnold was a good friend, renowned sculptor and supporter of Merry’s wines dating to Matanzas Creek Winery. Merry’s son Warren, who passed away in 2006, was named after these two stalwart friends, and this wine honors all three.

This wine’s deep red-purple color is almost black in saturation. Spicy notes of sandalwood and toasted oak lift from the nose with black cherries, plum, cola and undertones of minerality. The mouth is rich and dense with black fruit, mouth-filling tannins and chocolate notes that persist through a graceful, elegant finish.