Col Solare Shining Hill Red 06

Col Solare Shining Hill Red 06 -

The first from the estate vineyards. A charming blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Petit Verdot. Opens with milk chocolate, with soft and elegant tannins and a spicy black cherry finish. - Bob Woehler, tricityherald.com

Wine Press NW says: "Chateau Ste. Michelle's roots date to 1932. Marchesi Antinori started making wine in Tuscany in 1385. So their collaboration to craft a great Columbia Valley wine makes plenty of sense. The result is a rich, balanced Bordeaux-style blend that shows off aromas of berries, vanilla and flavors of blackberries and cherries. Well-managed tannins and bright acidity give this length and the potential for a long life."

A joint venture of Italy's famed house of Antinori and the Washington State giant Chateau Ste. Michelle, the wine is a blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and dash of syrah. It entices with aromas of chocolate, licorice, vanilla, blackberry and cassis, then follows through with supple tannins. It's concentrated, creamy, elegant and altogether sexy.

Wine Press NW says: "a rich, balanced Bordeaux-style blend that shows off aromas of berries, vanilla and flavors of blackberries and cherries."