VINTAGE
The 2005 growing season started cool, followed by 90+ degree days in July and early August. A temperature drop in late summer cooled the vineyards and allowed the grapes extra hang time to enhance flavor development. Harvest commenced as one of the earliest on record, and moderate weather conditions during harvest contributed to mature fruit with intense flavor, good sugar development, and high natural acidity across red varietals.
VINIFICATION
Grapes were gently crushed, and lots fermented separately on the skins for an average of seven to 10 days. During this time, a twice-daily pump over regime infused the fermenting juice with flavor, soft tannins and color. The wine was removed from the skins and placed into 75% French and 25% American new oak barrels. Racking occurred every three months during the 26-month aging period, and the international winemaking team of Resident Winemaker Marcus Notaro and Co-Winemakers Doug Gore and Renzo Cotarella tasted through the best wine lots to create the final blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (71%), Merlot (25%), and Cabernet Franc (4%).
WINEMAKERS' NOTES
Aromas of black cherry, berry and dark chocolate fuse with smooth notes of vanilla and spice. Rich and balanced on the palate, this wine finishes with long, lingering flavors of cocoa, black fruits, and vanilla. – Marcus Notaro, Resident Winemaker
VINTERS
Col Solare is the partnership between two influential wine producers who are recognized leaders in their respective regions: Tuscany’s Marchesi Antinori and Washington State’s Chateau Ste. Michelle. Col Solare, Italian for “shining hill,” realizes the partners’ mission to unite two unique viticultural and winemaking cultures to produce an ultra-luxury Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine.
ANALYSIS AT BOTTLING
Percentage Alcohol.......14.5%
Total Acidity............0.59/100ml
pH.......................3.68
Blend....................71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc
Other products in the category Chateau Ste. Michelle Wine / Col Solare:
Chateau Ste. Michelle Products
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