Leonetti Merlot Walla Walla Washington 2023

"Many of you may know that Leonetti Cellar was founded by my parents in 1977 as Walla Walla’s first commercial winery.  What is far less understood is that the presence of our family in Walla Walla spans over a century long into the deep silt loam of this valley.  My father was incredibly fortunate to know his grandparents, Francesco and Rosa Leonetti quite well, although I did not, their spirit was imbued within me throughout my entire childhood.  I grew up making weekend and summer trips the short distance down the old dirt road to the Leonetti farm they established in 1906, the same site where my father would come to plant his first commercial vineyard in 1974.  My great uncles George and Bill Leonetti eventually became the tenants, caretakers and inheritors of this precious plot of family ground.  Through these trips and time spent with my uncles, I acquired a certain perspective and reverence for our family heritage that guides me to this day." - Chris Figgins

Tasting Notes: This wine is densely colored garnet to the rim. It opens with rich aromatics of graham crackers and blackberries poured over vanilla ice cream with a subtle note of rich medium roast coffee. Sweet and dense fruit notes on the midpalate are bolstered by grippy tannins that recede at the perfect moment. Each sip leaves you with a supple but chalky finish that lingers. A truly sensational Merlot from the ’22 vintage that must be experienced.

Pairing Notes: Ribeye or New York strip; Braised short ribs or lamb shank; Truffle pasta or mushroom ragù; Aged cheddar or gouda.