SOLAIRE by ROBERT MONDAVI

SOLAIRE by ROBERT MONDAVI
This new line from the Robert Mondavi family of wines includes the 2OO7 Santa Lucia Chardonnay and the 2OO6 Central Coast Cabernet Sauvignon.  The Chardonnay is made with grapes sourced from the Santa Lucia Highlands including Bianchi and Boekenoogen vineyards.  A percentage of the wine goes through malolactic fermentation and 1OO% of the juice is barrel fermented.  Aged in a mixture of new and used French and American oak barrels, the wine has aromas of fresh tropical fruits and citrus with flavors of vanilla cream and brown spice.  Retail is $14.99.  Sourced from grapes from Central Coast vineyards including Pine Creek, Wild Rose and Donati, the Cabernet is fermented in stainless tanks.  1OO% of the wine goes through malolactic fermentation and is then aged in new and used French and American oak barrels.  Full-bodied, the aromas and flavors are of blackberry, cassis and plum supported by ripe tannins and sweet vanilla oak.  Retail is $16.99.  The wines are all crafted by veteran winemaker Rick Boyer.  Available from Horizon Beverage Company.