The 2007 Col Solare is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. The wine was aged in 85% French and 15% American oak, 100% new. Col Solare has planted a beautifully situated estate vineyard but the fruit is not quite ready to be included. Medium purple-colored, if offers up an inviting perfume of pain grille, pencil lead, espresso, violets, black currant, and blackberry. Structured and dense on the palate, the wine has superb intensity, volume, and balance. It will reward another 5-7 years of cellaring and will deliver prime drinking from 2016 to 2032. Col Solare is a partnership between Tuscany’s Marchesi Antinori and Ste. Michelle Wine Estates which began in 1995. The 2007 crush was the second in Col Solare’s splendid new winery in Benton City, one hour west of Walla Walla.Tel. (509) 588-6806; www.colsolare.com

An excellent Col Solare; the best yet. It has suppleness and structure, with a panoply of fruits, from cassis to slightly candied cherries. The barrel notes are here in proportion, adding toast and coffee and chocolate, and the tannins are firm and polished. A strong core leads into a tight, confident finish.——P.G.(2/1/2011)—— 94