Current and upcoming red wine releases reveal more acidity than such vintages as 1991, 1992, and 1993, but they are all well-made wines. The 1994 and 1995 vintages of Merlot RCF both contain 15%-20% Cabernet Franc. Unfortunately, there are less than 1,000 cases of the 1994, and only slightly more of the 1995. The dark ruby-colored 1994 Merlot RCF offers medium-bodied, elegant, vanillin-tinged, black-cherry aromas and flavors. Still tightly-knit, this wine will benefit from another year of cellaring; it will drink well for a decade. I initially thought it had the potential to be outstanding, but at present it appears it will fall a point or two short. Tel. (707) 539-7511; fax (707) 539-3601