Merry Edwards Russian River Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (750ML)

The first 2024 Sauvignon Blanc came in on Aug. 23, earlier than usual after a warm spring, and all the fruit was picked before 100-degree heat arrived in early October. A warmer July and August pushed the fruit toward tropical rather than citrus flavors. Merry Edwards has made this 100% Sauvignon Blanc since 2001 in a style built to tame the grape's green side: winemaker Heidi von der Mehden blends the herbal Shenandoah clone with a generous share of floral Sauvignon Musqué, ferments in French oak (15% new) and stirs the lees twice a week for six months. The 2024 is plush and juicy, with honeydew, ripe grapefruit, apricot and white flowers, then crisp apple and a touch of vanilla on the finish. Critics see it at its best through 2029. Thai coconut-lime soup with black cod is the classic match; crab cakes and goat cheese salad work too.