Wines Sonoma Coast Merry Edwards - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The 2019 Merry Edwards Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast AVA is a stellar example of California’s finesse with this noble Burgundian varietal. Crafted predominantly from Pinot Noir grapes, this vintage showcases the meticulous attention to detail that Merry Edwards brings to the winemaking process. The hand-harvested fruit benefits from careful selection and gentle vinification, including cold soaking and aging in French oak barrels. The result is a vibrant ruby-red wine, displaying classic Pinot characteristics—aromas of black cherry, raspberry, and subtle forest floor, with a hint of toasty oak and spice on the finish. The palate is silky and elegant, balancing bright acidity with fine-grained tannins, and offering a lingering, refined aftertaste.

Sonoma Coast AVA, the birthplace of this wine, is famed for its cool, maritime-influenced climate. Stretching along the Pacific, this region is defined by its rolling hills, fog-laden mornings, and mineral-rich soils of sandy clay and rocky outcrops. The cool temperatures preserve acidity in the grapes, fostering complexity and aromatic finesse—particularly beneficial to the fragile Pinot Noir grape. With a viticultural history going back to the 19th century, Sonoma stands out as a leading area in the evolution of American wine, where innovative producers like Merry Edwards have contributed to its stellar reputation.

For food pairings, this Pinot Noir shines with dishes of moderate intensity. Its elegance pairs beautifully with roasted duck breast served with cherry sauce, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto. If you’re seeking a regional touch, try it with Sonoma goat cheese crostini or a herb-crusted pork tenderloin—a lovely nod to local Californian fare.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally at 15-16°C. Decanting for 30 minutes prior to serving allows the complex aromas to fully open up. This vintage can be enjoyed now for its freshness or cellared for a few more years to enhance its depth and complexity.