2022 · Merlot

Leonetti Cellar is a family-owned estate winery in Washington’s Walla Walla Valley, founded in 1977 by Gary and Nancy Figgins as the valley’s first commercial winery. The family’s roots in the region extend to the Leonetti farm established by Francesco Leonetti, and today Chris and Amy Figgins continue the legacy. Chris directs viticulture and winemaking across six estate vineyard sites in Washington and Oregon, producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese and Aglianico. Farming emphasizes sustainability, regenerative practices and long-term soil health, including cover crops, beneficial insect habitat and mechanical weed control instead of herbicides. The wines are made in limited quantities, with a philosophy centered on respecting origin, vintage, heritage and terroir. Estate wines are offered primarily through a members’ mailing list, with no public tastings except during Leonetti Weekend.