Leone Italian Cellars 2006 Sangiovese, Columbia Valley, $29
Sal Leone, president of Woodinville-based Washington Wine & Beverage Co., launched this brand for supporters of Washington wine who enjoy Italian varieties with Italian-themed cuisine. Justin Neufeld, now at Gilbert Cellars in Yakima, and Bill Ammons began working Oct. 13 with these Neuffer Vineyard grapes — near famed Leonetti Cellar in Walla Walla. The wine then spent four years in barrel. It’s now showing graceful aromas of black cherry, loganberry, sandalwood and cigar leaf. There’s a plush feel to the flavors of ripe strawberry, black cherry and more loganberry, backed by red currant and vanilla. It’s quite delicious from stem to stern, and suggested pairings include Eggplant Parmesan. This bottling has fared well at competitions in Los Angeles, San Diego and Seattle, and the lineup of wines is available at the Silver Lake Winery tasting room.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 101 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
Ray Grinberg says
Walter Dacon makes a delicious Sangiovese