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.
Leonetti is near and dear to me as a wine consumer, and I’ve been on their mailing list for 20 years. Vintages like the ’92 Merlot and ’98 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon are included among my most memorable wines.
The ’03 Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Mill Creek Upland, Seven Hills, Pepper Bridge and Leonetti Estate Vineyards. 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 3% Carmenere, and 3% Cabernet Franc.
Dark crimson in color and just starting to fade slightly at the edge of the glass. 14.4% ABV. Great nose of red fruits, spice box, cocoa and anise. Rich, lush and full bodied. Great concentration. Currants, cassis cherries and graham crackers on the palate. Delicious wine with a lengthy finish. Drink over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 94 points.
Leonetti has a full mailing list but the wine is readily available at retail in late-March. The winery has done an exceptional job at holding the line on prices and you should be able to find bottles right around $85.
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