his outstanding 100% Merlot was largely sourced from the Loess Vineyard (66%) with smaller portions from the Mill Creek Upland and their 40-year-old original block at the Leonetti winery. Needing a two hour decant to fully open, the 2018 Leonetti Merlot slowly unveils layers of toasty oak that are woven together with black cherry cordial, sagebrush and milk chocolate tones that all come together in the glass. The silky texture truly impresses, as the wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Cocoa powder dusted red cherries greet you, while flavors of underbrush, damp earth and espresso bean all enliven the senses. A complete wine, the 2017 Leonetti Cellar Merlot will enjoy a long life in the cellar. Try to resist this stunning new wine for at least another two years.
| Rating | Value | Drink |
|---|
| 95 | $100 | 2022-2040 |
| Country | Region | Appellation |
|---|
| United States | Washington | Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley |
| Editor | Issue | Importer |
| O. Bargreen | April, 2020 | |
Find More: WASHINGTON 2018, WASHINGTON Vol. V (2017-2019), WASHINGTON Vol. VI (2018-2021)
