Merlot from Walla Walla Tasting!

 Name: Leonetti Cellar

Variety: Merlot

Region: Walla Walla Valley, Washington

Country: USA

Year: 2019

Price: $100

Winery Review: Leonetti Cellar is located in Walla Walla which is a very well known wine region in the United States. This particular winery considers merlot may be considered cabernet's little sister, but they produce wines capable of standing on their own merits. They specifically grow merlot grapes in the cooler sites with slightly heavier soils. Descriptors of their merlot consists of intensely focused fruit and silky tannins. The 2019 vintage is described as "an incredible nose of white lilac, boysenberry, reduced blueberry syrup and candied walnuts."

Personal Review: While I was home for spring break, I was submerged with plentiful opportunities to drink a variety of wine. My parents enjoy wine but their friends enjoy it even more. One evening we tasted a few bottles of wine and this merlot was exceptional. Merlot is on the top of my list when it comes to reds, so I was pleased to try a merlot that was of high quality and a bit expensive! It was not too dry, which I prefer, accents of oak or nuttiness, cherry/berry like. It was strong but subtle, nothing too overpowering. It coated the mouth well and had a smooth finish. According to Wine Folly, specifically page 131, the United States only makes up a small portion of the production of merlot. However, California and Washington are listed as the most important! The flavors noted, according to wine folly are, cherry, plum, chocolate, dried herbs and vanilla.