This post has been sponsored by Merriam Vineyards. All opinions expressed are my own. This message is intended for those 21+. Please enjoy responsibly.
The Merriam Vineyards Blanc de Noirs 2022 commemorates the 25th Anniversary of Merriam Vineyards. This bubbly was produced using the Méthode Champenoise from Pinot Noir grapes sourced from Merriam Vineyards estate in the Russian River Valley AVA in Sonoma. Is bubbly worthy of commemorating Merriam Vineyards 25th anniversary? That's the question we're answering here today.
Read on for aromatic and tasting notes, as well as pairing suggestions. Now, without further introduction, let's get tasting.
Wine Overview
Quick Facts
- Winery: Today's wine comes to us from Merriam Vineyards, Russian River Valley AVA estates in Sonoma.
- Grape Varietals: This wine is 100% Pinot Noir.
- ABV: 14% alcohol by volume.
- Price: As of this review, a 2022 Blanc de Noirs costs $58.
Region - Russian River Valley AVA, Sonoma, California
Established in 1983, the Russian River Valley AVA is one of the premier viticultural regions within Sonoma County, which in turn makes it one of the premier viticultural regions in the world. The Russian River Valley's climate is dominated by the Pacific Ocean, especially the Pacific fog that travels through the Petaluma Gap, following the Russian River inland. This fog can drop temperatures by as much as forty-degrees at night, which in turn slows the ripening process of the area's grapes. This slowed ripening process allows the grapes to develop complex flavors and deep aromas, while simultaneously retaining their natural acidity. This combination has allowed the Russian River Valley to become internationally renowned for its cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Aromatic and Tasting Notes
On the Nose
Off the top of the glass, the aromatics are probably best described as 'pleasantly breezy,' featuring lush red fruit notes. Bright strawberry notes waft off the top of the glass, carried on a lively effervescence. On second whiff, deeper into the glass, the acidity is bright and refreshing, carrying pleasant raspberry notes.
On the Palate
This sparkler introduces itself with a concentrated mouthful of watermelon and peach from the very first sip. There are also lush tropic notes, which then mature with hints of apricot. The body is overall very well balanced and rife with fruit. A very pleasant bubbly.
Finish
The finish is bone-dry and savory, which lets the wine end with pleasant complexity. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Wine Score
I'll score this wine a very respectable 93. This was a delicious and festive bubbly Pinot Noir that was well indicative of its Sonoma origins.
Food Pairings
- Light Fair: Think classic appetizers, especially salty or crispy starters, such as crostini with cured meat toppings, or baked brie. Charcuterie boards with salty elements will also work beautifully.
- Seafood: Think heartier fish, such as butter-soaked lobster, or salmon prepared with herbs and figs. Light seafood pasta sauces would also work beautifully. Nut-crusted halibut or seared tuna steaks would also be delicious.
- Fried Foods: This wine can serve admirably as a palate cleanser, making it ideal for fried foods such as tempura, lobster rolls, or even Cajun fried chicken.
- Pork: This wine also pairs deliciously with most pork dishes, such as roasted pork shoulder or stuffed pork tenderloin.
Who is this Wine For?
Wine enthusiasts and the 'wine-involved' are the primary audience for Merriam Vineyards 2022 Blanc de Noirs. If you're someone who places a premium on wines that are CCOF, this wine is for you. If you're someone who belongs to a wine club and is looking for something beyond 'flashy' sparklers for something more complex and textured, this is definitely a wine for you. Finally, anyone looking for a food-friendly bubbly will find something to enjoy here. This wine's structured character and savory finish make it ideal for pairing with entrees, as mentioned above in our pairing suggestions.
Where to Buy
As of this review, you can purchase the wine directly from Merriam Vineyards.
And that's our review of Merriam Vineyards 2022 Blanc de Noirs. If you enjoyed this review, or sampled the wine or any of its pairings, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you!
Cheers!
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