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 crimson in color. 14.3% ABV. Soaring nose of dark fruits, Whitman Sampler box, scorched earth and violets. Medium to full bodied with perfect acidity and balance. Lush, rich and concentrated. Black currants, cassis liqueur, warm licorice and espresso on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Stunning Merlot. Without question this is among the best domestic versions of this variety. Drink over the next 3-4 years.
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 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2023 Merlot as they were just recently released.