Leonetti's success has been built on the premise of passion, hard work, discipline, sacrifice and knowledge. What started as a dream to make world class wines in Walla Walla over 40 years ago has become a true success story. Their pursuit of excellence in viticulture and winemaking is uncompromising, which allows their brands to reflect a deep sense of place and connection to the land.
Leonetti Cellar was founded by Gary and Nancy Figgins in 1977 as Walla Walla’s first commercial winery. But the presence of the Figgins family in Walla Walla spans over a century long into the deep silt loam of this valley.
Gary was incredibly fortunate to know his grandparents, Francesco and Rosa Leonetti, quite well. Chris Figgins, the current owner and Gary and Nancy's son, grew up making weekend trips the short distance down the old dirt road to the Leonetti farm that had been established in 1906. This is the same site where, with a few cuttings of Cabernet Sauvignon and Riesling, Gary would come to plant his first commercial vineyard in 1974 and unknowingly establish an entire industry for the valley.
Building off the inspiration he gleaned from his grandfather’s bubbling fermentations on the farm’s dirt floor basement, the only logical thing to do to honour his family’s roots was to name the winery Leonetti Cellar. Through these experiences, Chris acquired a certain perspective and reverence for his family heritage that guides him to this day.
