The 2006 Merlot has 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Carmenere, and 4% Petit Verdot in the blend. It was aged in a mix of new and used barrels for 15 months. It is dark ruby/purple-colored with aromas of cedar, earth notes, clove, cinnamon, red currants, and black currants. This leads to an elegant wine with ripe, savory flavors, good depth, and a lengthy, pure finish. It will evolve for 3-4 years and be at its best from 2012 to 2020. Founded in 1978 by Gary Figgins, Leonetti Cellar remains a benchmark Washington winery. Shortly the winery will be in a position to achieve its goal of producing all of its wines from estate-grown Walla Walla vineyards. Gary’s son Chris has taken over much of the day-to-day operation of the winery and in particular the viticultural component. Tel. (509) 525-1428; www.leonetticellar.com

This bright, aromatic, vivid wine opens with a bowlful of berries and cherries. There is plenty of acid under the ripe fruit, which takes center stage at the moment. The significant addition of Carmenere (from the Seven Hills vineyard) adds black pepper to the engaging mix of flavors. Despite its youth, the flavors persist for a remarkably long finish.——P.G.(12/1/2008)—— 96