Merry often refers to this appellation blend as the core Pinot Noir in the portfolio. As an assemblage of half a dozen different Pinot Noir vineyards within the Russian River Valley area, the wine showcases the art of blending. The 2018 vintage aged in 52 percent new French oak for nine months, allowing the wine time to rest on the lees, gaining depth and mouthfeel. This regime has led to a Pinot Noir of great balance, foretelling of a long life ahead.This brilliant, burgundy-hued wine immediately offers up fragrances of mixed berries, Bing cherry, cola, candied violets and black tea along with exotic spices and dried herbs. On the palate, there is a compelling mix of broad tannins and minerality, along with a seductive measure of smoky oak balanced with juicy acidity. Black plum, brambleberry, cassis and wet slate create a layered and lingering finish. | Merry EdwardsBest known for its vineyard-designate Pinot Noirs, Merry Edwards also gets stunning results from its appellation-specific Pinot, in this case from the Russian River Valley. This weighty Pinot Noir opens on the nose with an intriguing floral note, followed on the palate by expressive layers of cherry and raspberry. With firm but beautifully integrated tannins, it is an impressive example of a powerful Pinot built for the long haul yet ready to drink now. | 95 points, Robert Whitley for Wine Review Online