The 2016 'Reserve' Red Wine is a magnificent release from Leonetti Cellar. Sourced from the Loess, Seven Hills, Holly Roller, Serra Pedace, Mill Creek Upland and Leonetti Old Block Vineyards, this red blend was aged for 22 months in French oak before bottling. The final blend is a smaller than usual portion of Cabernet Sauvignon (73%) and an unusually high portion of Malbec (22%) with just a touch of Cabernet Franc (5%). This youthful red needs significant air contact before it begins to release its full aromatic presence. Once aroused, this slowly unveils green bell pepper, blueberry compote, crème de cassis and sagebrush tones that create the highly perfumed nose. The palate is decadent, revealing an exceedingly plush texture, with bright acidity and serious weight, the wine expresses copious dark fruits with sweet pipe tobacco, blueberry compote and dark chocolate shaving flavors. Seductive in its youth, this stunning red will have an exceedingly long life ahead of it. Try to resist this beauty for at least another year or two.
Rating | Value | Drink |
97 |
$180 |
2020-2045 |
Country | Region | Appellation |
United States |
Washington |
Walla Walla Valley |
Editor | Issue | Importer |
O. Bargreen |
May, 2019 |
NA |