At a glance

Producer

Leonetti Cellar

Region

Walla Walla Valley, Washington, USA

Grape variety

Red Blend (primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$100-$150

Tasting profile

Deep dark fruit (black cherry, blackberry), graphite, tobacco, cedar, and hints of violet; tannic grip pronounced.

Evolution: With age, secondary notes of leather, earth, and forest floor will develop while tannins soften and integrate.

At peak: Complex layers of dark fruit, spice, earth, and savory notes with silky tannins and a long finish.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, moderate to high acidity providing freshness

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

14.5%-15%

Aging potential

20-25+ years due to exceptional structure and balance

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2042

Optimal window

2025 to 2045

Current status

Approaching early maturity with excellent aging potential

Current condition

Still youthful with robust tannins and fresh acidity; not yet fully integrated

The 2017 vintage in Walla Walla was excellent, yielding ripe fruit with balanced acidity and tannins. The Reserve bottling is crafted to age long, benefiting from extended cellaring to soften robust tannins and fully express complexity.

Food pairing

Grilled ribeye steak, braised short ribs, lamb chops with rosemary, aged cheddar, or wild mushroom risotto.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To help mellow firm tannins and aerate for aroma development.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Leonetti Cellar employs sustainable farming practices including water conservation, integrated pest management, and energy-efficient winery operations. Use of cover crops and responsible canopy management reduces inputs.

While not fully organic or biodynamic, the winery demonstrates solid sustainability efforts through certifications and practical vineyard and winery management. Packaging is standard glass bottles with cork closures; no major innovations in lightweighting or alternative closures yet.