Planted on a well-drained benchland in the northern reaches of the Russian River Valley, Windsor Gardens was one of the appellation’s few “heritage” Pinot Noir vineyards. The thirty-year-old, non-irrigated vines were progeny of the classic Martini clone, favored by California winemakers for decades. Windsor Gardens Vineyard provided grapes for Merry Edwards Pinot Noir — a richly textured, deep wine — since 1997, becoming a vineyard-designated wine in 1999.

“In this warmer area of the Russian River Valley, the Pinot Noir grapes develop a prominent, earthy character that I describe as ‘clean forest floor’. The fruit smolders with layers of complex flavors,” says Merry. “I view Windsor Gardens as a bellwether conveying Pinot Noir’s affinity for the Russian River Valley.”

A development company now owns the Windsor Gardens vineyard land. Sadly, in order make way for construction of single family homes, the owners uprooted the entire vineyard shortly after the 2003 harvest. “I treasured each vintage of grapes I acquired,” says Merry. “This small, heritage vineyard was a priceless jewel.”