2016 Leonetti Holy Roller

Bright ruby-red. Surprisingly fresh and floral for a wine from The Rocks, showing more high-pitched violet than Rocks funk on the nose; the pH is still a high 3.96 after a bit of acidification (Figgins noted that this is the only wine he acidified in 2016). Deep, concentrated and a bit soft in the mouth, with red cherry, licorice and flint flavors complicated by slightly medicinal notes of mint and menthol and enlivened by a hint of crushed tart cherry from the Sangiovese. Not yet especially complex as these vines were only planted in 2010, but a nervy Rocks wine with surprisingly fresh acidity. Finishes primary and pure, with substantial dusty tannins and rising length. This wine was only racked prior to going into barrel, while the other '16s were racked twice. Clearly a vineyard to follow. (made from Figgins's six-acre vineyard in what was previously a cherry orchard in The Rocks)

A blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon and 44% Sangiovese, the 2016 Holy Roller Vineyard Red Wine starts with a rich and dense core of dark red and black fruit on the nose, with a clean, juicy expression and hints of leather and spice. Full-bodied, the wine is fresh, finessed and structured on the palate, showing a generous style that is softly tart at the moment. It ends with hints of dark bitter chocolate on the long finish. Only 75 cases were produced and are released to members only, so you will not find this bottling in restaurants or retail shops.

Not yet released, the 2016 Holy Roller Vineyard checks in as a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon and 44% Sangiovese. This is the first single vineyard release ever done by the estate. It's notably deeper colored than the Sangiovese and has a beautiful nose of blackberries, blueberries, spice box, lead pencil, and ground herbs. With medium to full-bodied richness, a silky, ethereal texture, fine tannins, and a great finish, it's another impeccably made wine from this estate that's going to keep for 10-15 years or more.