This post has been sponsored by Merriam Vineyards. All opinions expressed are my own. This message is intended for those 21+. Please enjoy responsibly.
Today, we're taking a look at a pinot noir from one of the world's most premier wine regions - Sonoma, California, which is renowned in no small part because of its pinot noir (and chardonnay). The bottle we're sampling is a 2022 Pinot Noir, which comes to us from Merriam Vineyards' Diana's Estate, which is a 12-acre estate located on California's Russian River Valley.
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, Diana's Estate, located on Los Amigos Road, just south of the Russian River Valley appellation. The estate is named after Diana Merriam, the matriarch of the family-owned winery, and is the flagship of their single-vineyard offerings. The estate is certified organic by the CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers).
- Grape Varietals: This wine is 100% pinot noir.
- Aging: 1 year in 20% new French oak.
- ABV: 14.2% alcohol by volume.
- Price: As of this review, this wine costs about $50 to $60, depending on the outlet.
Region - Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California
Diana's Estate is situated on the Eastern Hills of the Russian River Valley, in the northeastern part of the appellation, located in Sonoma County, California. The Russian River Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) was established in 1983 and is celebrated for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The defining feature of this AVA is its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, with some areas being as little as 10 miles from the shore. This provides a natural cooling effect for the area's vineyards, with the Russian River Valley seeing dramatic diurnal shifts - cool nights and warm days. This leads to long and slow ripening periods for the grapes, which allows them to develop complex flavor profiles while at the same time retaining their natural acidity. While the area features a wide variety of grape varietals, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are by far the most widely planted, and are the varietals that have achieved the highest renown.
Aromatic and Tasting Notes
On the Nose
Off the top of the glass are notes of elderberry and black tea, framed in loam. Deeper into the glass, there's a very pleasant whiff of what I'll describe as dried or smoked citrus, especially orange peel. Floral notes are present throughout, adding layered complexity, especially lilacs. Towards the bottom of the glass, there are some warm and earthy spices, perhaps a hint of anise, and just a pinch of cloves. A very enjoyable bouquet that begs to be lingered over.
On the Palate
On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, with a balanced but sturdy mouthfeel. The flavor is overall very graphite-influenced, framing black plum notes and oak. The black tea from the bouquet makes itself known at times, alongside hints of what I'll describe as black licorice dusted with pepper. Very enjoyable.
Finish
The finish is quite dry with polished tannins and notable acidity, which fades away quite pleasantly.
Wine Score
I'll score this wine a very respectable 92 for its layered and complex bouquet and pleasant flavor profile. The mouthfeel is pleasantly sturdy, and the finish is enjoyable without overstaying its welcome. A very enjoyable wine.
Food Pairings
- Hearty Main Courses: This wine's sturdy mouthfeel and medium body lend it exceptionally well to heartier main courses. Think venison stew or other game meats such as braised duck or boar. A roasted leg of lamb would also be delicious.
- Pasta and Red Sauce: Traditional pasta and red sauce dishes would also pair well with this wine, as noted by the winemakers themselves. Think marinara and spaghetti, toss in some meatballs, and you've got a delicious match.
- Rich Chocolate Puddings and Cheeses: Low tannins and bright acidity mean seafood. Think fit and her marinated salmon, herbed tuna steaks with a nice butter sauce, or even grilled swordfish.
Who is this Wine For?
Pinot Noir enthusiasts are the primary audience for this wine, especially for those who appreciate classic Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Here, such enthusiasts would greatly appreciate this wine's red fruit flavors, layered complexity, and balanced acidity. Organic and sustainably minded shoppers will also appreciate Diana's Estate's commitment to organic farming and sustainability.
Where to Buy
As of this review, I would recommend Wine.com for online purchase.
And that's our review of Merriam Vineyards Diana's Estate 2022 Pinot Noir. 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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