Merry Edwards – California Pinot Noir with a Winemaker’s Signature
Merry Edwards is a name that resonates deeply in the world of California wine. Founded by trailblazing winemaker Merry Edwards in 1997, the winery quickly became synonymous with world-class Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley, along with some of the region’s most distinctive Sauvignon Blanc.
Each wine is rooted in a sense of place and crafted with a focus on balance, site expression, and long-term aging potential. The result is a portfolio that consistently garners acclaim for its clarity, structure, and depth—without ever losing its connection to the vineyard.
Merry Edwards Winery continues to thrive under the stewardship of winemaker Heidi von der Mehden, maintaining the original vision of site-specific expression through organic vineyard practices and minimal intervention.
Signature Styles
Merry Edwards built her reputation on Pinot Noir, a grape known for its nuance and transparency. Her wines showcase fruit purity and elegant tannins, with a balance that allows each vineyard site to shine.
- Pinot Noir – Russian River Valley: Typically lush and floral, with notes of red cherry, raspberry, cola spice, and forest floor. Structured yet silky on the palate.
- Single Vineyard Pinot Noirs: From sites like Meredith Estate, Coopersmith, and Klopp Ranch, these bottlings reveal the subtle differences in soil, elevation, and microclimate across Sonoma County.
In addition to red wine, Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc has developed a cult following. Aged partially in French oak, it offers a more layered, textural expression of the varietal—bright citrus and tropical fruit on the nose, with creaminess and mineral lift on the finish.
Legacy and Impact
As one of the first women to break through the winemaking ranks in California, Merry Edwards left a lasting mark not just through her wines, but through mentorship, sustainability, and advocacy for site-driven farming. Her namesake winery continues that legacy with an unwavering focus on quality and individuality.
The wines are designed to evolve beautifully over time, rewarding those who choose to lay them down just as much as those who open them now.
