Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2017
Critical Acclaim
92+ points
“The appellation 2017 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley spent 9 months in French oak. Its ruby color is followed by impressive notes of black raspberries, spiced black cherries, earth, and hints of incense. Rounded, supple, nicely concentrated, and with fine yet present tannins, this is a classic Pinot Noir that’s going to keep for at least 7-8 years, possibly longer.”
Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, June 2019
4 Star
“An intense pinot with complex aromas and flavors. Notes of cherry, a hint of currant and anise. It has a supple texture, with a gorgeous melding of flavors. This delicious pinot ends with a savory note. Spot on.”
Peg Melnik, Santa Rosa Press Democrat, June 5, 2019
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Recipes
Art Martin’s Braised Short Ribs Beet Salad with Charred Red Onion, Goat Cheese & Cocoa Crumble Mediterranean-Style Lamb Burgers Nicole’s Roasted Chicken
Policies | Accessibility | Credits | © 2025 Merry Edwards Winery
Policies | Accessibility | Credits
© 2025 Merry Edwards Winery
Winemaker's Comments
Putting together this blend is always an intriguing exercise and shows how often the whole is truly greater than the sum of its parts. Ten vineyards are represented here, spanning the breadth and depth of our region. Five of our estate properties are featured in the mélange. The clonal selections include both old and new — UCD37, 23, Pommard and Swan, along with Dijon 115, 667 and 777. With this diversity, the Pinot created is a wonderful, kaleidoscopic reflection of our valley.
Warmly opulent and sophisticated, this is an intense, inviting Pinot. It’s packed with ripe cherry, strawberry fruit leather, brambleberry and blueberry. This fruit expression is heightened by anise, earthy notes, well-integrated toasty oak, and a whisper of violets and white flower blossoms.
On the opening, the highly structured palate shows an energizing interplay between bright, lively acidity and generous, silky tannins. It then broadens and mellows into a lingering, satisfying finale. Aromas follow through, providing a dynamic flavor spectrum, finishing with a peppery salvo.
Our media maven Jill Schlegel was inspired to make this relatively simple but rather decadent egg dish after Ken and I gave her some fresh eggs from our happy hens. The earthiness of the mushrooms makes her Spring Veggie Frittata a great pairing with our 2017 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. You may find this in our recipe collection on our website at merryedwards.com.