Château Ste. Michelle, Columbia Valley (Washington) Meritage Red Wine 2006

($55):  When in doubt as to what wine to buy, one from Château Ste. Michelle–at any price point–is a excellent choice because of their consistency.  This one, a high end Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (58%), Merlot (35%), Malbec (6%) and Petit Verdot, is suave and polished.  Although the emphasis is on ripe fruit, there are sufficient tannins to lend backbone.  It’s a good choice for a simple charbroiled steak at home. 90 Michael Apstein Dec 8, 2009