Leonetti Cellar Walla Walla Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

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BN#265658

Winemaker notes: "Dense saturated color. The initial nose is blueberry compote, blackberries, and a whif of pine resin and sawdust behind the classic Cabernet note of cassis. As I taste an open bottle over several days, the wine changes dramatically, with additional layers of aromas, including tobacco, more black fruits, and vanilla revealing themselves. I'm always pleased when a wine does this, as it's a wonderful harbinger that it will continue to gain complexity in bottle for years to come. The palate of this cab is just gorgeous, with a lush mouthcoating texture. The tannin content is high but the tannins are very ripe,fine-grained and long. The wine finishes with an endless glycerin sweetness for which Leonetti wines are known."

Wine Enthusiast

This full-throttle Bordeaux blend is big, tight, and a bit hard but dense and concentrated. Here are blue and black fruits, layers of smoke and bitter chocolate, yet a lifted, floral scent is also there. In the finish it feels chewy and substantial, with threads of cedar, cinnamon and caramel woven among the darker, smoky notes. Give it plenty of breathing time.

Score: 96. —Paul Gregutt, September 01, 2009.

Wine Advocate

The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 14% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Malbec. Deep crimson-colored, it displays a captivating bouquet of pain grille, tobacco, pencil lead, incense, black currant, and blackberry liqueur. Layered and opulent on the palate, it has tons of succulent black fruit, ripe tannin, impeccable balance, and an exceptionally lengthy finish. It will evolve for another 5-7 years and drink well through 2026.

Score: 95. —Jay Miller, October 2009.

Wine Spectator

Firm and chewy, bristling with tannins. There's a licorice and pepper overlay to the dark berry and mint flavors, lingering on the solidly framed finish. Best from 2012 through 2016. 2,558 cases made.

Score: 90. —Harvey Steiman, October 15, 2009.