39. Col Solare 2009 Red, Columbia Valley, $75
Marcus Notaro – now departed to fabled Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars in Napa Valley – was the winemaker behind this glorious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (73%), Merlot (15%), Cabernet Franc (10%) and Malbec. Vanilla, dark cherry, blackberry and chocolate aromas announce this is a serious Bordeaux-styled red blend. On the palates, blueberry joins in the fruit chorus, while chocolaty tannins sing a firm base line that fades gradually as a subtle minerality emerges at the finish. This wine displays the finesse for mild venison but has a muscle underneath that can handle a brawny steak as well.
Production: 5,000 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
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