2004 Merry Edwards Olivet Lane Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $57. This heritage vineyard is over thirty years old and still pumping out quintessential Russian River Pinot fruit. Merry Edwards has been making Olivet Lane Pinot Noir since 1989 and this may be her best vintage yet. This Pinot Noir was aged 10 months in 80% new French oak but you would never know it as the oak is so well integrated. · A reference standard for Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Oh that Bing cherry and cola and Asian spice. Demure and perfectly balanced. A finish that is ridiculously long. Lively acidity brings out the fruit beautifully. This is why I get excited about Pinot Noir. This is a wine you want to go one on one with - find a time when you are alone, uncork a bottle, and spend the evening in a monogamous relationship. Reviewed October 2, 2006

Winery: Merry Edwards Wines
From article: Merry Edwards: Pinot Noir Royalty