Col Solare, the joint venture between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Antinori, completed its new Red Mountain facility in time to produce this 2006. Composed largely of cabernet and merlot, the wine buzzes with lithe energy when first poured but shows little else. A day of air brings it into focus with scents of tobacco leaf, cedar and black cherry, the flavors bearing out all those aromatic elements. But it's the wine's texture—wiry, energetic and completely poised—that may have you returning over and over to the glass. This is seriously elegant, and still very young. Cellar, then serve with herb-crusted lamb chops.
94 points - Wine & Spirits (April 2010)
The 2006 Col Solare is a blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Syrah. The wine was aged in 75% French and 25% American oak, 100% new. Deep crimson-colored, it displays a captivating perfume of sandalwood, lavender, incense, spice box, black cherry, black currant, and a hint of chocolate. Medium-bodied, elegant, and already complex, it has layers of succulent fruit, impeccable balance, and a lengthy, pure finish. It will continue to evolve for another 4-6 years and offer a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2026.
93 points - The Wine Advocate (October 2009)
A polished red, delivering a lively mouthful of blueberry and currant fruit shaded with nice hints of cream and white pepper. The finish lingers seductively. This is distinctive—and much smoother in texture than previous vintages. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and others. Drink now through 2014. 11,000 cases made.
92 points - Wine Spectator (June 15, 2009) | 
