Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley 2023
(Sonoma County, California) - [TP 95] [WS 94] [JS 93]

Winemaker's Notes:

We began making our Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc in 2001, and we have lovingly reproduced this delicious wine each vintage since. Winemaker Heidi von der Mehden follows specific protocols, including fermentation in French oak barrels and twice-weekly lees stirring, to craft this aromatic, lush bottling. The nose of the 2023 vintage features fragrant tropical aromas of white pineapple, passionfruit, mango and guava, with subtle hints of plumeria, lemon curd and lime zest. The palate is clean and bright, with accents of ruby red grapefruit, honeysuckle and ripe melon followed by a burst of crisp, refreshing acidity.

Ratings & Reviews

95 Points - Tasting Panel Magazine:
“Aromas of pineapple, guava, and gardenia. Lemon curd, pink grapefruit, and tangerine blossom form a delicate, creamy wave across the palate. Tropical flowers such as gardenia and plumeria play alongside honeyed pears, dotted with a salty, crisp seashell finish.” Meridith May, Tasting Panel magazine, July 2025

94 Points - Wine Spectator:
"A distinctive white, with fleshy mango, peach and apricot flavors at the core, plus notes of candied ginger, lemon curd and candied kumquat. Floral details, herbal accents and a drizzle of honey linger on the finish. Drink now."

93 Points - James Suckling:
An iconic, fruit-forward and refreshing expression of sauvignon blanc. Aromas of apricots, nectarines, pineapple and green mangoes. The palate shows honeydew melon and green apples, with tender sweetness in the finish balanced by bright, juicy acidity. This is a wonderful summertime favorite. Light-bodied. Drink now.

93 Points - Wine Enthusiast:
This decadent and fleshy barrel fermented Sauvignon Blanc delivers a pop of fresh Meyer lemon, lime, linen and citrus blossom aromas on the nose, while the palate delivers fresh acidity with some heft and flavors of lemon zest, fresh grass, ginger and melon. — Tom R. Capo

92 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc was barrel-fermented and matured for five months in 15% new French oak. It has pretty aromas of white peach, guava, beeswax, grapefruit peel and candle smoke. The medium-bodied palate features nuanced, layered flavors. Its soft, mouth-coating texture is foiled by bright, mouthwatering acidity, and it has a long, flavorful finish.

92 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
A pale silver/yellow color, the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley has softer floral notes of melon, dewy flowers, quince, pink grapefruit, and vanilla. It’s elegant, fruity, and supple, with lots of elegant charm and an inviting feel as well as a softly rounded texture. Drink 2025-2030. (Drink between 2025-2030)

92 Points - Decanter:
If you think you've gone off Sauvignon Blanc, think again with this vibrant, viscous wine made with grapes from some of Russian River's top sites. Tropical and citrus-driven, this offers a complex blend of fresh herbs juxtaposed with mango, melon and a gentle minerality. A hint of oak spice and long lees aging add complexity and the end result is an exuberant wine that doesn't overplay its hand.

91 Points - Vinous:
 The 2023 Sauvignon Blanc (Russian River Valley) is classy and polished to the core. Citrus peel, marzipan, white flowers and light tropical inflections all grace this aromatic, beautifully perfumed Sauvignon Blanc from Merry Edwards. Drink it over the next year or two. (Drink between 2025-2028)