Benchmark Wines by

Leonetti Cellars

The Winery

Leonetti Cellars

“For more than 30 years, my family has been producing wines of consistently high quality at Leonetti Cellars, driven by the vision of my parents and founders, Gary and Nancy Figgins. What started as a dream to make world class wines in Walla Walla, became a true success story. Now, my role is to continue to evolve that vision at Leonetti while leading the charge for the next generation of Walla Walla vintners in the same way my father inspired the generation before me. We are dedicated to growing, producing, and marketing wine and food of world class quality, sustainability, and pedigree. Our pursuit of excellence in viticulture and winemaking is uncompromising, which allows our brands to reflect the deep sense of place and connection to the land that inspires our family on a daily basis.”
-Chris Figgins, President & Winemaking Director at Leonetti Cellars

As Walla Walla Valley’s first commercial winery, Leonetti Cellars was established in 1977. Although their initial grape plantings were of Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling, they now produce a range of wines including Merlot and Sangiovese. Because of the high prices that the winery demands for their Bordeaux-inspired wines, Leonetti and its key vineyards have become one of the top-tier wineries in the up-and-coming region of Washington. The region’s silty loam soils are responsible for the wealth of variety that their terroir creates, especially on the different aspects and slopes that define the Walla Walla Valley.

leonetticellar.com

1998
Out of Stock
750ml
WE94
RP94
Favorite
Share
View all wines by Leonetti Cellars

Tasting Notes

WE94
If this isn't the best $50 Merlot in the world, I don't know what is. Dark, thick and jammy, with dense layers of fruit, spice and oak. Scents of sandalwood, coffee, mint, pepper and more, much more. In the mouth it offers a seamless, achingly rich mix of fruits, woods and spices. Big, rich, long and deep, it's nonetheless best enjoyed right now, not cellared.
RP94
The medium to dark ruby-colored 1998 Merlot possesses an immensely appealing spice and dark fruit-scented perfume. While it would be perceived as extroverted, even boisterous from another producer, it is reserved for Leonetti. Medium to full-bodied and hugely ripe, it is crammed with Asian spices, chocolate, blackberry juice, and a cascade of cherries. This expansive, rich, lively Merlot is unquestionably great stuff! There are no hard edges in its sultry character or exceptionally long, fruit-filled finish.

Other wines you may like

2005
1 In Stock
750ml
WA97
WS94
Favorite
Share
1997
2 In Stock
750ml
D96
WA95
Favorite
Share
2000
4 In Stock
750ml
W&S95
WA94
WS93
Favorite
Share

Rare Wines, Serious Collectors

As the #1 back-vintage retailer in the US, Benchmark Wine Group prides itself on being a trusted source for the greatest wines in the world. Their unparalleled market knowledge and exceptional service have come together to provide the most accessible cellar of rare and sought-after wines with a guarantee.

Provenance Guarantee

Benchmark Wine Group

445 Devlin Road
Napa, CA 94558

Phone: 707.255.3500
Fax: 707.255.3503
SMS: 707.200.4049

Questions?

Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm
Shipping Questions?
orders@benchmarkwine.com

Included in Wine Enthusiast's 50 Best Wine Retailers in America