Merry Edwards Richaven Russian River Pinot Noir 2021 Rated 94WE CELLAR SELECTION

Wine Enthusiast Review
Rated 94
CELLAR SELECTION
Deeply colored in the glass, this wine explodes with crushed black cherry, raspberry and quince aromas. The palate is structured, with a wealth of powerful tannin balanced by orange peel acidity and flavors of macerated Bing cherry compote, cardamom, sassafras and black pepper. This should blossom wonderfully with just a few years in the cellar.

Merry Edwards Richaven Russian River Pinot Noir 2021

Deep, structured, and vineyard-driven. The 2021 Richaven Pinot Noir comes from Merry Edwards' estate vineyard in the Sebastopol Hills, a cool, fog-influenced site planted in 2015 on Goldridge sandy loam. This vintage shows powerful fruit, vibrant acidity, and layered spice, earning multiple 92–94 point critical reviews.

More Critcal Ratings

• VM: 94 points
• DM: 94 points
• JD: 93 points
• JS: 93 points
• WS: 92 points
• WA: 91 points

Key Details

• Producer: Merry Edwards Winery
• Vineyard: Richaven Estate (Sebastopol Hills)
• Region: Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
• Vintage: 2021
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Clone: 100% UCD37
• Soil: Goldridge sandy loam
• Aging: 9 months in 50% new French oak

Tasting Notes

• Crushed black cherry, raspberry, and quince
• Orange peel acidity with Bing cherry compote
• Cardamom, sassafras, black pepper, and clove
• Hints of eucalyptus, mint, and floral potpourri
• Structured tannins with vibrant, racy acidity

Vineyard & Style

• Hilltop site with coastal fog and cooling breezes
• Planted 2015; 10 acres of Pinot Noir
• Shows depth, power, and early complexity
• Expected to evolve beautifully with cellar time

Food Pairing

• Duck breast, quail, and game birds
• Wild mushroom dishes
• Herb-roasted pork or salmon
• Aged cheeses and charcuterie