2021 Merry Edwards Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, USA (750ml)

WINEMAKER'S NOTES: The aromas on the nose are red-fruit driven, featuring ripe raspberries and fresh strawberries with a pretty hint of vanilla. On entry, this wine is bright and buoyed by refreshing acidity, and a persistent core of tannins brings elegant texture. Hints of yellow fruit skin and gravel give way to a slightly spicy finish highlighted by notes of blood orange and cherry cola. TASTING NOTES: Aged nine months in (47% new) French oak and whole berry fermented, this red dispenses aromas of crushed violets, incense, wet stone, and boysenberry. Prickly white pepper perks up notes of plum and mocha. There’s a “calmness” on mid-palate with a hint of orange rind, soy sauce, and brushy, dried wildflowers. - Tasting Panel, 93 pts.