Readers should keep an eye out for the release of the 1993 Chardonnay Silhouette in 1995 (only 800+ cases were produced). The wine is one of extraordinary richness and character. Aged 15 months in new Louis Latour barrels, with significant lees contact, and put through complete malolactic fermentation, this Chardonnay is similar to a great Burgundy grand cru such as Batard or Chevalier-Montrachet. It offers a gorgeously seductive, rich, honeyed, apple, spring flower blossom-scented nose that exhibits a judicious touch of sweet oak. Full-bodied, with formidable intensity and outstanding ripeness, this wine brilliantly marries power and concentration with a sense of elegance and grace. It is an outstanding Chardonnay that will put Merryvale in the spotlight. This property has recently shown significant progress in the quality and complexity of its wines. Winemaker Bob Levy and consulting French oenologist Michel Rolland have moved to a more natural winemaking style, with full malolactic fermentation for the whites. In addition, the reds are now bottled with little or no fining or filtration. There is also significantly less acidification. The results are more texturally enticing and complete wines. How good it is to see this winery begin to produce such high quality wines. Tel. (707) 963-2225; Fax (707) 963-1949.