Peter Merriam and his wife, Diana, purchased their Sonoma County vineyard estate in 2000, as a next chapter for his 20-year retail wine career.
Today, they run the label with their son, Evan, and family continues to be a core tenant to their business. This is especially true during the holidays, when their Greek heritage shines through even more. Wine and food are central to the Merriams, highlighted at Christmas time with dishes like fasolakia (green beans in tomato sauce), grilled lamb and koulourakia cookies, which are actually traditional for Easter. But the crunchy, buttery texture and bright citrus flavors make them suitable for a special Christmas sweet bite as well.
As an oenophile and French wine lover from his days in retail, Merriam likes to choose a special bottle to open from his French wine collection, a nod to the wines that first inspired his journey as a vintner. They also pair their holiday meal with cherished selections from Merriam’s own cellar, like the Rockpile Cabernet Sauvignon, perfect with hearty winter meals and festive celebrations.
When not celebrating over food and wine, Merriam is an avid skier and fly fisherman, finding that the discipline, dedication and focus required for both activities have served him well in the vineyard. A natural conservationist, he is the driving force behind the sustainable and organic philosophy at Merriam as well.
He and Diana split their time between Sonoma County and their home in Maine. As native New Englanders, they return there every winter to ski and enjoy the New Year over bowls of clam chowder and their Merriam Blanc de Noirs.
Amber Turpin: How did you get into this work?
Peter Merriam: Years in the beverage industry, starting with a wine shop outside of Boston, Massachusetts.
Did you ever have an ‘aha’ moment with a certain beverage? If so, tell us about it.
Yes, my first tasting of a French Burgundy wine back in the ’80s: Morey Saint Denis.
What is your favorite thing to drink at home?
Pinot noir.
Where do you like to go out for a drink?
Local family-owned restaurants.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what would you want to be drinking (besides fresh water)?
French Burgundy wines.
Merriam Vineyards, 11650 Los Amigos Rd., Healdsburg, 707.433.4032. merriamvineyards.com.
