2022 Merriam Blanc de Noirs, 25th anniversary sparkling wine, Russian River Valley
From the outset, Peter and Diana Merriam, founders of Merriam Vineyards, have worked to create a sustainable environment for people, as well as for their land and vines. They currently have a wetlands area and a water reclamation pond, beehives and owl boxes, cover crops in between the vines to revitalize the soil, and composted grape stems and pomace to use as fertilizer on the estate.
Twenty-five years into their adventure, the Merriam family has released a new, finely-layered sparkling wine. Made with 100% pinot noir, it has a rose-gold hue and a robust mousse of small bubbles. The body is balanced and fruity, yet the wine finishes dry.
The first night, the sparkling wine paired nicely with with buttery lobster on a toasted bun. But the pinot noir in the wine also showed its character when matched with heartier foods the following day.
An energetic and well-made sparkler for many occasions.
WHO: Merriam Vineyards
WHAT: 100% pinot noir
WHERE: Russian River, Sonoma County, California
HOW MUCH: $58
POINTS: 92