Merry Edwards Winery was founded in 1997 and produces critically acclaimed terroir-driven Pinot Noirs and Sauvignon Blanc using site-specific viticulture in the Russian River Valley and Sonoma Coast appellations. Over two decades, Merry Edwards has assembled a stellar collection of vineyards and with her meticulous attention to detail crafted Pinot Noirs of immense depth, elegant structure, and exceptional longevity. Her Sauvignon Blanc is among the most sought after in the world.

Now a Certified California Sustainable Winery, the brand entered a new chapter after Merry’s retirement. Since 2019, Merry Edwards Winery has been part of the Roederer Collection, owned by Maison Louis Roederer in France. Merry’s handpicked successor, winemaker Heidi von der Mehden, and winery president Nicole Carter have taken up exactly where Merry left off, making wines that are treasured by Merry Edwards’ fans.

The 2023 Merry Edwards Coopersmith Pinot Noir opens with an immediate sense of classic Russian River charm. Bright red cherry aromas leap from the glass, supported by a gentle thread of baking spices that gives it lift and warmth. It’s vivid, energetic, and beautifully focused.

On the palate, the wine is incredibly juicy, bursting with maraschino cherry and bright cranberry. The structure is impressive yet effortless: firm enough to frame the fruit, but never intrusive. What stands out most is the mid-palate; rich, mouth coating, and texturally plush creating a sense of depth that unfolds slowly and gracefully.

The finish seems to go on forever, carrying those red fruit tones and warm spice notes long after the sip is gone. It’s beautiful, expressive, and wonderfully balanced, capturing the purity of fruit and elegance that make Coopersmith such a standout site. A striking and memorable Pinot Noir; lively, generous, and crafted with unmistakable finesse.

By Stephen Kwolek