2003 Leonetti Merlot Columbia Valley
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Tasting notes
Though I was not a fan of the 2002, I was enraptured by the 2003 Merlot. Chocolate, cassis liqueur, cherries jubilee, spices, and violets are found in its magnificent aromatics. Aged in 80% new oak (of which 80% is French and the balance Pennsylvanian), this concentrated gem slathers the palate with black raspberries, spices, copious quantities of cherries, and blackberries that envelope its significant tannin. Projected maturity: now-2016. Tel. (509) 525-1428; www.leonetticellar.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Pierre Rovani
More reviews and scores
Deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines dark cherry, black plum, licorice, graphite, chocolate and mint, all lifted by a floral topnote. Sweet on entry, then spicy and firm in the middle, with flavors of black fruits, mint and licorice. Dense without being weighty; not a fat or thick wine but offers lovely lift. Finishes with a fine dusting of tannins.