What Are You Drinking?

“I really like the Merry Edwards 1999 Pinot Noir ‘Russian River Valley.’ As everyone attempts to capitalize on Pinot Noir’s recent surge in popularity, many veteran winemakers are producing hugely extracted, overripe, high-alcohol wines, which show none of the elegance, grace and balance true advocates of this varietal have grown to love. Often, these wines are not even identifiable as Pinot Noir. Unfortunately, some critics are giving these over-the-top efforts high marks, which further fuels the problem. Thank you, Merry Edwards, for creating this spectacular wine, and for understanding that the silky, sensual nature of great Pinot Noir is not obtainable from overripe fruit or heavy-handed winemaking.”