2001 Merry Edwards Russian River Valley Pinot Noir The 2001 Merry Edwards Pinot Noirs have all shown me that the vintage was superb and also that the Russian River valley is still one of my favorite areas for new world Pinot Noir. The region that produces the juiciest and most seductive Pinot Noirs, to my mind (and palate), is the Russian River Valley in western Sonoma. The Merry Edwards Russian River Valley Pinot Noir has an elegance balanced by a firm tannic backbone that will age beautifully for a few years. Extremely aromatic and fine; supple and full bodied, with good depth of flavor, an excellent balance and a very long finish. It tastes of plum, clove, tobacco, vanilla and rose petal. Merry Edwards wines are to be enjoyed in the first year of release or better yet put them down for 7 or more years and you will be rewarded handsomely. This could well be the perfect wine for wild game, hearty mushroom dishes and wild salmon. The Stats MERRY EDWARDS Varietal: PINOT NOIR Producer: MERRY EDWARDS Region: RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY Price: $65 at Tapestry