Review

94 Robert Parker Points! 2002 Col Solare Proprietary Red A Proprietary Blend Dry Red Table wine from Columbia Valley, Washington, USA Col Solare, a collaboration between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Italy’s Marchese Piero Antinori, is coming into its own. The terrific 2002 Col Solare is unquestionably the finest to date. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 20% Syrah, it explodes from the glass with aromas of black fruits, tar, and licorice. Armed with gorgeous intensity, this broad, medium to full-bodied wine displays tar, blackberry, rose, and dark cherry flavors reminiscent of a top-notch Italian wine. Pure, powerful, and studded with exquisitely ripe tannin, this gem also reveals a long, suave finish. While it can be aged for up to 10 years, I suggest drinking it over the next 5-6 as I believe its flavor profile will ultimately be dominated by cedar and tobacco flavors.

Rating

Col Solare, a collaboration between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Italy’s Marchese Piero Antinori, is coming into its own. The terrific 2002 Col Solare is unquestionably the finest to date. A blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 20% Syrah, it explodes from the glass with aromas of black fruits, tar, and licorice. Armed with gorgeous intensity, this broad, medium to full-bodied wine displays tar, blackberry, rose, and dark cherry flavors reminiscent of a top-notch Italian wine. Pure, powerful, and studded with exquisitely ripe tannin, this gem also reveals a long, suave finish. While it can be aged for up to 10 years, I suggest drinking it over the next 5-6 as I believe its flavor profile will ultimately be dominated by cedar and tobacco flavors. Tel. (800) 267-6793; www.colsolare.com Robert Parker 94 points (Apr 2006) Lean and austere, this one aims for subtle and delivers a beautifully proportioned package. It has refreshing acidity to support the dark berry and dusky herb flavors, lingering nicely as the finish slowly fades. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah. Drink now through 2010. 4,653 cases made. –HS Wine Spectator 90 points (Jun 15 2006)