2018 Merry Edwards Flax Vineyard Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

Winemaker Notes:  Merry Edwards Winery has been making Flax Vineyard Pinot Noir in Russian River Valley since 2005. The property is located on Westside Road in a famed portion of the appellation often referred to as The Miracle Mile for the outstanding grapes that are grown there. The classic Pommard clone selected for planting is a good match for this warmer, northern end of the valley. Flax consistently provides grapes that become classically elegant, food-friendly wines, and the 2018 vintage is no exception. The wine displays beautiful red garnet and purple hues. Layers of vanilla, jasmine, cherry cola and bright blood orange fill the nose. Ripe and concentrated, the mouth has luscious and focused tannins that are layered with cherries, smoky oak notes and a perfect core of acidity to hold the structure throughout a long finish. The aging potential for this wine is unmistakable.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


Tasting Panel - "With the Pommard clone planted on gravelly loam in this warmer, northern end of the Russian River Valley, this Pinot Noir exhibits chalky tannins and bright cherry, with a sense of sweet beets, root bitters, pomegranate, and orange peel. Exciting mouthfeel, energetic and spiced"


Vinous - "The 2018 Pinot Noir Flax Vineyard shows a more red-toned profile than the other Pinots in the range. Cedar, iron, dried herbs, anise and leather add an attractive upper register. This mid-weight, expressive Pinot offers terrific persistence and long, clean finish"


Wine Enthusiast - "This vineyard-designate is tart and rich in crunchy red fruit, the body, which is full and fleshy on the palate, is rendered in an opulent style. Toasted oak and supple tannin add to the weight, breadth and complexity of the wine"