2006 Leonetti Walla Walla Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

SKU #1046234 96 points 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. (PG) (9/2009)

95 points Robert Parker's 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. (JM) (10/2009)

94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Good deep, bright ruby. Primary aromas of cassis, licorice, bitter chocolate, brown spices and menthol. The palate offers a compelling combination of pliancy and underlying structure, giving this very rich, deep wine a harmoniousness from the outset. The wine's lovely sweetness is leavened by healthy acidity, and the finish is very long and classically dry, with terrific definition and lift. Really spreads out to saturate the palate. A great showing, but delay your gratification because there will be more fireworks down the road. (ST) (11/2009)

90 points 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. (HS) (10/2009)

Jancis Robinson

Exciting meaty nose. Distinctive in this line-up. Dense but energetic and wide awake. Firm but supple. Mouthwatering finish even with this depth of fruit. (JH) (2/2010)

K&L Notes

On release: This Cab comes from a handful of vineyards in Washington's Walla Walla Valley, a hotbed for Bordeaux varietals, including Seven Hills, Mill Creek Upland, Pepper Bridge and Old Winery Block. The wine is deep and concentrated from color to aroma and onto the palate. Blueberry pie and a hint of pine dominate the nose. With some air, secondary aromas of cassis, blackberry and tobacco start to unfurl their aromatic wings. The wine's mouthcoating texture, viscosity and sweet fruit just hint at what's to come. Cellar this for a few years and be swept away.