2021 Merry Edwards Chardonnay Olivet Lane

A silver/straw color, the 2021 Chardonnay Olivet Lane comes from a site planted in 1975 and jumps from the glass with aromas of juicy pear, honeysuckle, and lemon confit, and a delicate dewy note. It feels pastoral and springy, with a nuanced texture and medium to full body. it offers the sunny feel of the Russian River, but it adds a dewy herbaceous tone that’s quite appealing. It feels like a great springtime Chardonnay. Drink 2025-2035. It is an exciting period for this estate, as they are now starting to release the first few vintages produced since Merry Edwards’ retirement in 2000. Heidi Von Der Mehden joined as her successor in 2015, working closely alongside the founder for five years leading up to her departure. In 2019, the estate was purchased by the exceptional Champagne house of Louis Roederer. While long-time fans of the estate will continue to have their go-to wines in the range from the Russian River Valley, the estate has also been expanding north into the Anderson Valley, and those wines are fantastic additions to the estate’s portfolio, offering a lot of finesse and nuance.