Merlot lovers will enjoy Whitehall Lane's two fine examples of this varietal. The more ambitiously-styled 1995 Merlot Reserve Leonardini Vineyard reveals an opaque ruby/purple color, less expressiveness aromatically than the regular Merlot (it's more closed), and more toasty new oak. In the mouth, this wine possesses an extra dimension of richness and concentration. It is not as accessible as the regular Merlot, and over the next several years most readers will probably prefer the latter wine. Nevertheless, the Reserve Merlot is an excellent effort that should age well for 7-8 years. Tel. (707) 963-9454; Fax (707) 963-7035