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. Leonetti is part of Figgins Family Wine Estates. Chris Figgins is now in charge of the winemaking.
Dark as night in color. 14.5% ABV. Sensational nose of black fruits, molten licorice and Whitman Sampler Box. Full bodied and very approachable. Lush, rich and impeccably balanced. Currants, creme de cassis, black raspberry and tobacco on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Incredible Merlot that is aging brilliantly.
My rating: 95 points.
Leonetti was one of my very first mailing lists. Twenty five 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. Look for the 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2021 Merlot at retail or you may have to wait for the next release in early 2024.
Also consider reading The Wines of Chris Figgins and Barrel Tasting With Chris Figgins.