Leonetti Cellar was founded in 1977 by Gary and Nancy Figgins. Leonetti, along with Quilceda Creek and Woodward Canyon put premium Washington Cabernet Sauvignon on the radar of wine consumers across the United States. Leonetti also produces one of the very best domestic Merlots. Chris Figgins is now in charge of the winemaking.
Violet in color. 14.3% ABV. 93% Merlot and 7% Petit Verdot from Estate Vineyards. Stunning nose of black fruits, scorched earth and molten licorice. Big, plush powerful with plenty of acidity. Blackberries, cassis liqueur, espresso and dark chocolate on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long with the silkiest of tannins. At 10 years of age this wine has entered what should be a long drinking window. Perhaps best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 94 points.
Leonetti was one of my very first mailing lists. Twenty years later I am still a buyer and the wines are better than ever. The winery has done an exceptional job at holding the line on prices. Although the mailing list is full and the waiting list is long the wine is readily available at retail in late March so look for the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot next Spring.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.