Merryvale's flagship white is their 2008 Chardonnay Silhouette. This unfiltered cuvee, always one of the finest from Napa Valley, exhibits leesy, brioche notes intermixed with honeysuckle, orange blossom, poached pear and citrus. The complex aromatics are followed on the palate by a rich, minimally oaked (at least that's the way it tastes), delicious, full-bodied, top-class Chardonnay that should drink well for 3-5 years. Tel. (707) 963-2225

Silhouette is Merryvale’s small-production best of barrels blend from the winery’s various vineyards. The ’08 is a success, showing brisk acidity and new oak and yeast flavors and a creamy texture framing ripe pineapple, pear and mineral flavors. It’s an elegant wine that shouldn’t be served too cold. ——S.H.(3/1/2011)—— 93