The real gem in the Merryvale portfolio is the limited production (approximately 1000 cases) Silhouette Chardonnay. Aged in 100% new Louis Latour French oak barrels, put through 100% malolactic fermentation, and bottled with neither fining nor filtration, this is a remarkably rich, complex, prodigious Chardonnay that is among the finest in California. The light to medium straw color of the 1995 Chardonnay Silhouette is accompanied by an explosive, sweet, fragrant bouquet of ripe peaches, pineapple, and buttery popcorn. Full-bodied, with a thick, chewy texture, this super-concentrated, powerful yet harmoniously constructed wine will drink well for 4-5 years. Think of it as Merryvale's answer to the exquisite Batard-Montrachet from Chassagne-Montrachet's Michel Niellon. Winemaker Bob Levy continues to upgrade the quality of Merryvale's wine program. Tel. (707) 963-2225; Fax (707) 963-1949 (release date 6/97)