Merry Edwards, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County, California) Sauvignon Blanc 2016

  Merry Edwards came to Sauvignon Blanc grudgingly, although early in her career she first gained fame making wine from the so-called Bordeaux grape varieties. But those early successes were mostly red. Since she founded the winery that bears her name, her calling card has been Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, some of the finest in the world. She is known throughout California as the queen of Pinot Noir. Merry’s best-kept secret however is her Sauvignon Blanc, one of the two finest Sauvignons made in America. The other is Spottswoode. No one else is even close. Merry makes her Sauvignon in the Bordeaux style, lavishing it with oak. Not to worry. The fruit shines through. The 2016 exhibits enticing aromas of white peach, tangerine and tropical fruits. There’s a kiss of wood spice, too. On the palate this Sauvignon is rich and luscious, with mouth-watering acidity and truly remarkable length for a Sauvignon. The same wine made in Bordeaux (yes, it’s that kind of quality) would set you back $100 or more, so there’s value, too.