Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc 2020

"An aromatic nose of stone fruit, fresh tropical fruit and jasmine. Full-bodied with a nice, oily texture. Fruity and lightly honeyed on the palate. Lavender and lily. Steely. Loire-like. Always an excellent sauvignon blanc. Drink or hold." —James Suckling

"The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc is fruity and refreshing. "We did a lot of whole cluster pressing," winemaker Heidi von der Mehden responds when I ask about new approaches in 2020 in response to wildfires. "I think it helped with the texture of the wine and took out a bit of bitterness" she continues. "It started as a logistical decision in 2020, but we liked it, so we will continue to do more whole cluster pressing moving forward." It's a significant dedication to quality for one of their largest cuvées, and the 2020 also contains about 60% estate fruit. This Sauvignon Blanc offers pretty aromas of elderflower, white peaches, lime peel and kiwi with touches of baker's yeast and alluring floral perfume. The palate is medium-bodied and flavorful, with notable concentration and freshness that will broaden its appeal at the table." —Wine Advocate

"The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley jumps out the glass with pristine ripe tropical fruit including guava, fresh white flowers, and grapefruit pith. The palate is ripe with sweet pink grapefruit candy, light vanilla spice, and sweet peach. Soft and rounded, the riper style of the 2020 Sauvignon Blanc makes it approachable now or over the next 6 years." —Audrey Frick