Dec 30, 2022
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Ponzi Vineyards
| Owner(s) | Dick Ponzi, Nancy Ponzi |
| Web site | www.ponziwines.com |
| Link to this site |
Dick and Nancy Ponzi established Ponzi Vineyards in 1970 in Beaverton, Oregon, 15 miles southwest of Portland. They were from California where Dick worked as an engineer for Disneyland creating rides. They developed an interest in Burgundy and traveled to all the wine regions of Europe. California seemed too warm for Pinot Noir and no one was producing Pinot Noir of note in California at the time. With three children and some cats and dogs in tow, they moved to the Willamette Valley, becoming one of Oregon's early wine pioneers.
The first vintage of Ponzi Pinot Noir was 1974. For 14 years, Dick taught engineering at Portland Community College to supplement his income. The sale of Ponzi wines gradually increased and they broke even in 1984.
It wasn't until the 1985 vintage that Oregon got national recognition with a New York Times article and Dick was able to quit his day job teaching and begin making wine full time. Nancy was in charge of selling it. In 1988, Dick made Robert Parker's list of World's Best Winemakers.
Dick has been active in promoting Oregon’s wine industry for years. He was a founding member and first president of the Oregon Winegrowers Association, and served as a founding Director of the Oregon Wine Advisory Board (now the Oregon Wine Board). Nancy helped create the first Discover Oregon Wines guide, co-founded the International Pinot Noir Celebration, the Salud Oregon Pinot Noir Barrel Auction and, most recently, Oregon Pinot Camp. In 1997 they created a regional tasting room and a full service restaurant showcasing local wines and food called The Dundee Bistro. Ponzi Vineyards is one of Oregon’s top 20 Oregon wineries by brand with over 30,000 cases produced annually.
Ponzi Pinot Noirs have won critical acclaim through the years. The wines have always been intense, savory and concentrated. Consistency has always been a hallmark, even during the uneven vintages of the 1990s. My Oregon wine epiphany was a 1992 Ponzi Reserve Pinot Noir made from a single vineyard that was 18 years old at the time and I have continued to enjoy many Reserve bottlings since.
The three Ponzi children, Michel (Operations Manager) , Anna Maria (President) and Luisa (Winemaker), grew up helping out in the vineyard and in the family’s winery and operate the family business now. All of them pursued other careers initially, with Luisa studying pre-med, Anna Maria began working for a magazine on the East Coast, and Michel was a jazz musician in Los Angeles. They had a strong pull to the land, the seasons and the harvest and eventually returned. They are continuing the family tradition of community and wine industry service. Even their eight grandchildren are now being introduced to viticulture and the operation of the winery at an early age. Luisa is a highly respected winemaker who was trained in Burgundy and now is married to another notable winemaker, Eric Hamacher.
Luisa Ponzi watched as her parents built Ponzi Vineyards beginning in 1970 and worked in the vineyard and cellar most weekends. After graduating from Portland State University in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science, she moved to Beaune, France, to study winemaking. In 1993, she received the coveted Certification Brevet Professionel D'Oenologie et Viticulture. At the time, she was the only American woman to earn such a credential. While in France, she worked at Domaine Georges Roumier.
Maria Ponzi has directed the company's sales and marketing programs for more than 20 years. She oversees daily operations, including the tasting rooms. She is a leading female figure in the Oregon wine community and is actively involved in promoted the state's tourism.
The Oregon Wine Board recently presented Dick and Nancy Ponzi with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Oregon Wine Symposium in Eugene, Oregon. The award is put forth by colleagues currently working in the Oregon wine industry.
A new Ponzi winemaking facility was completed for the 2008 harvest. It is located closer to the estate vineyards on the east and north faces of the Chehalem Mountains. The 30,000-square-foot sustainable, gravity-flow winery is named Colina de Sogno (Hillside of Our Dreams) and was designed by Dick Ponzi. It is plenty large for Ponzi's 45,000-case annual production. The new winery is one of the first to be certified under the LIVE Winery plot program. The new winery is not open to the public, but he current tasting room at the old winery will remain open.
The Pinot Noir lineup includes Tavola, Willamette Valley, Reserve, Il Luce Vineyard, and Abetina Vineyard. A value-priced label, RouteStock Cellars, is made for Wilson Daniels group. 40% of the fruit used for Ponzi wines is estate grown at several sites (130 acres), with the remainder coming from vineyards owned by others but managed by Ponzi. All estate vineyards and most of the contract grapes are certified through the Oregon LIVE and Salmon Safe programs.
Ponzi has always been successful with Pinot Gris which they first planted in 1978. Luisa has also done well with Chardonnay in a style that is somewhere between the big Caliesque wines popularized in California and the more discreet white Burgundies.
In 2020, Ponzi celebrated its 50th anniversary with the May release of Anna Maria Ponzi's memoir, "Pinot Girl."
Ponzi Vineyards has two tasting rooms. The original tasting room is located at the site of the first estate vineyards and winery at 14665 SW Winery Lane in Beaverton and is open from 11-5 daily. Tours are available by appointment (503-628-1227). The Ponzi Wine Bar is located at 100 SW 7th St in Dundee and is open from 11-5 daily (503-554-1500). The wines are distributed in all fifty states by Wilson Daniels and sold on the website. Ponzi wines are also exported to Canada, England, Sweden, Japan and Hong Kong.
Articles About Ponzi Vineyards
2011 Oregon Pinot Noir All-Americans Second Team (8.47 12/20/2011)
2012 Oregon Value Priced Pinot Noirs Honorable Mention (9.17 12/26/2012)
2015 Oregon Pinot Noir Value Priced Honorable Mention All-Americans (10.23 12/27/2015)
Chehalem Mountains (7.7 12/17/2008)
Diversity of Styles Popularize Pinot Noir Rosé (11.23 5/12/2018)
Embarrassment of Riches: Oregon (9.1 1/11/2012)
Final Oregon Wine Reviews of 2016 (10.44 12/13/2016)
Large Review of 2009 & 2010 Willamette Valley Pinot Noirs With a Few from 2008 & 2011 (9.7 5/9/2012)
Many Oregon Wineries Offering Pinot Noir for a C-Note or More (9.15 11/24/2012)
Memorable Winery Visits (7.2 9/15/2008)
Olympics of Cult Pinot Collectibles (7.1 8/19/2008)
Oregon Chardonnay Gaining Prominence (10.33 7/6/2016)
Oregon Pinot Noir Starts Here: A Sampling of Entry Level Wines (10.36 8/29/2016)
Pinot Briefs (8.46 11/29/2011)
Pinot Briefs (9.33 11/9/2013)
Pinot Briefs (9.23 4/13/2013)
Pinot Briefs (9.15 11/24/2012)
Pinot Gris: Oregon’s Signature White Wine (7.15 3/26/2009)
Ponzi Vineyards (6.52 1/30/2008)
Ponzi Vineyards: 40 Years (8.30 1/27/2011)
Ponzi Vineyards: Setting the Standard for Innovation (7.23 8/17/2009)
Rece$$ion Bumpers (7.15 3/26/2009)
Recent Sips of Pinot Noir & A Few Whites (10.7 4/6/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted Chardonnay (10.21 11/22/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir (10.21 11/22/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted White Wines (10.12 6/14/2015)
Vineyards Established 1965-1971 (12.29 6/5/2022)
Willamette Valley’s 50th Anniversary: A New Look at the Old Guard (10.18 9/29/2015)
Wine Books of Interest (8.8 12/24/2009)
Reviewed Wines
2018 Ponzi Abetina 2 Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir
14.0%
alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.53, 200 cases, $110. Fruit from Abetina 2 block at
Aurora Vineyard. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, 7-day postfermentation
maceration, Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 50% new.
Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Aged in bottle for 5 months before release.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Beautifully perfumed with
aromas of dark cherry, tilled earth and truffle. Darker hued and darker
fruited in a mid-weight style featuring flavors of black cherry, purple grape,
blackberry, cinnamon spice, dark chocolate, and vanilla. The moderately
firm tannic spine moderates the fruit load. The texture reminds one of silk
pajamas. An extremely persistent grand cru finish is exhilarating. Over time
in the glass, the wine builds in hedonistic pleasure offering a charming
spiciness. When tasted two days later from a previously opened bottle, the
wine woke up the mouth with dreamy goodness.
Score: 97.
Reviewed May 29, 2022
ARTICLE »
2017 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Rosé
13.0% alc., pH 3.29, RS 3.0 g/L, $23, screw cap.
24-hour maceration after de-stemming and pressed to stainless steel for a cool fermentation. Malolactic
fermentation inhibited. A portion was fermented in neutral French oak barrels and allowed to complete
malolactic to add a touch of creaminess to the mid palate.
·
Moderate coral pink color in the glass. Welcoming
aromas of red berry, rose and seasoned barrique. Pleasingly dry with bright acidity, offering flavors of
strawberry and blood orange.
Score: 89.
Reviewed May 12, 2018
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2014 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.2% alc., pH 4.2, RS 0.57, 17,000 cases,
$17, screwcap. Ponzi was one of the pioneers of this varietal, with first plantings in 1978. The wine is
produced from certified sustainable Ponzi Aurora, Avellana and Estate Vineyards, as well as multiple
other vineyards. Fermented in stainless steel tanks, malolactic fermentation prohibited.
·
Very light
platinum gold and clear in the glass. Invigorating aromas of fresh apple, lychee, pear, marzipan and
wet chalkboard. Clean, crisp and refreshing, with flavors of lemon oil, mango, pear and apple,
finishing with a bright cut of acidity. A versatile wine that will enliven a variety of foods or satisfy on its
own.
Score: 89.
Reviewed April 5, 2015
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2014 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Rosé
13.2% alc., pH 3.25, RS 0.34, 1,500 cases, $20, screwcap. A
blend of fruit from Merten and Dion vineyards, and saignée
from Ponzi’s finest Pinot Noir lots. 100% de-stemmed,
stainless steel tank fermentation, malolactic fermentation
inhibited.
·
Moderately deep pink salmon color in the glass.
Perfume of fresh strawberries, crushed cranberries and rose
petal lead to pleasing flavors of strawberry, cherry and white stone fruits.
The experience is like biting into a fresh, ripe strawberry. Clean and
vivid, with balanced acidity and a dry finish.
Score: 89.
Reviewed April 5, 2015
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2014 Ponzi Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc
13.4% alc., pH 3.23, RS 1.8 g/L, $20, screwcap. Sourced from
Aurora Vineyard (Ponzi’s LIVE Certified Sustainable vineyard - 74%), Zenith Vineyard (19%) and Thistle
Vineyard (7%). Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation prohibited.
·
Very light golden yellow color in the glass. Demure aromas of poached pear, nectarine and honey lead to a
light bodied, but flavorful, core of white stone fruits with a hint of citrus. A delicate, but pleasant wine with a
slightly sweet finish. This wine is more akin to Pinot Gris than Chardonnay and will pair well with shellfish and
quiche.
Score: 88.
Reviewed June 14, 2015
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2014 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $25, screwcap. Sourced from multiple sustainably-grown
vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley. Extended
cold soak, native yeast fermentation, aged in French oak
barrels, 20% new, for 11 months. Unfined and unfiltered. Aged
7 months in bottle before release.
·
Moderate reddish purple
color in the glass. Highly fragrant with aromas of black cherry, black
raspberry, cola and toasty oak leaping from the glass. Noticeably fresh
and energetic, with a juicy core of cherry fruit augmented with a light
touch of oak. Beautifully integrated acidity drives the palate in the
forward-drinking, food-friendly and enjoyable wine.
Score: 89.
Reviewed November 22, 2015
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2014 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $27,
screwcap. Winemaker Luisa Ponzi blends wines from many
sites that reflect the vintage and the winemaker’s hand, but
with an aim toward accessibility. Named Tavola (Italian for
table) precisely to indicate this is an everyday wine.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Welcoming
aromas of black cherry and spice lead to a satisfying mid
weight essence of black cherry, blueberry and pomegranate fruit flavors
accented with a hint of oak spice. Gentle, silky tannins make for easy
drinking. A standout among the entry level wines tasted.
Score: 90.
Reviewed August 29, 2016
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2014 Ponzi Avellana Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., pH 3.73, 110 cases, $105.
Released November 2016. Crafted exclusively from Ponzi’s LIVE Certified Sustainable Avellana Vineyard.
100% de-stemmed, fermented in small lots after a 5-day cold soak. Fermenters were aerated or manually
punched down twice a day for 12-20 days before undergoing a 7-day post-fermentation cold soak. The wine
was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 50% new, bottled unfined and unfiltered, and aged 5 months in
bottle before release.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, soy sauce and forest
floor lead to a delicious core of cherry and raspberry fruits lifted with bright acidity. Very charming in the mouth
with a soft texture, spice accents, and an exuberant, showy finish filled with exuberant grape essence.
Score: 93.
Reviewed December 13, 2016
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2013 Ponzi Reserve Willamette Valley Chardonnay
13.4%
alc., pH 3.46, 1,350 cases, $35. Released July 2015. A blend
of LIVE Certified Sustainable fruit from Ponzi’s Aurora and
Avellana vineyards, as well as fruit from Sunset View and
Thistle vineyards. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented
using partial wild yeast. 100% malolactic fermentation. Lees
stirring once a week for 6 months and racked after 12 months
to neutral oak. After 20 months of barrel age, blended and
bottled. Aged in bottle 3 months before release.
·
Moderately light golden
yellow color in the glass. Appealing aromas of lemon-lime soda, lemon
curd, brioche and saline. Slightly viscous on the palate and very suave
and clean, with flavors of lemon, yellow apple, spice and vanilla wafer.
Gorgeous balance with a bright, citrus driven finish of uncommon length
for a Chardonnay.
Score: 92.
Reviewed November 22, 2015
ARTICLE »
2013 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., pH 3.68, $40. Released September 2015. A
blend from Ponzi’s Aurora and Avellana vineyards as well as nine other vineyards. 5-day cold soak, aged 11
months in French oak barrels, 35% new, and aged 5 months in bottle. Unfined and unfiltered.
·
Moderate
reddish purple color in the glass. Very little black cherry fruit on the nose with a strong cigar box scent. Mid
weight core of black cherry fruit with complimentary oak and spice accents, backed by svelte tannins. Easy to
drink, with a modest finish.
Score: 87.
Reviewed November 22, 2015
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2013 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., pH 3.55, 1,250 cases, $60. A blend
of LIVE Certified Sustainable fruit from Ponzi’s Aurora, Abetina and Madrona vineyards, as well as fruit from
Linda Vista, Kason, Zenith and Walnut Ridge vineyards. Primarily grapes grown in Laurelwood soils in the
Chehalem Mountains AVA. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, 7-day post-fermentation maceration, and aged
for 20 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and aged an additional 5 months
before release.
·
Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Shy, but pleasing aromas of cherry,
raspberry, herbs, nuts and nori. The array of darker red cherry and berry fruit really sparkles on the palate
which offers added accents of black tea, savory dried herbs and toasty oak. Silky tannins add a seductive
mouthfeel. This is a giving wine upon opening, but becomes noticeably better over time in the glass. Decant or
hold in your cellar for full enjoyment.
Score: 91.
Reviewed November 22, 2015
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2012 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Chardonnay
13.8% alc., $32. A blend of Dijon clones
grown primarily on Laurelwood soils.
·
Light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas of forest path,
nutty oak and flint. A simple wine with a soft mouthfeel and pleasing citrus flavors backed by prevalent nutty
oak. The slippery finish has more citrus-fueled intensity than the entry. A sulfur note rises up on the finish.
Score: 86.
Reviewed July 9, 2016
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2012 Ponzi Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.57, 8,000 cases, $40, screwcap. This
wine is considered a benchmark Oregon Pinot Noir. It is a blend of certified sustainable fruit from some of the
oldest and finest vineyards in the Willamette Valley, including Ponzi’s Madrona and Aurora vineyards, as well
as Avellana Vineyard, which is planted entirely by clonal massale. Aged for 11 months in 100% French oak
barrels, 35% new.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Enticing mix of black cherry, Asian 5-spice and
smoky oak aromas. Like the nose, the wine offers an inviting marriage of black cherry and marionberry fruit
with spicy oak. Forward drinking, with balanced tannins and some finishing power.
Score: 89.
Reviewed September 29, 2015
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2011 Ponzi Abetina 2 Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.60,125 cases, $145.
Released September 2013. A single vineyard cuvée crafted from Abetina 2 block at Ponzi’s LIVE Certified
Sustainable Aurora Vineyard. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in small lots after a 5-day cold soak. Fermenters
were aerated or manually punched down twice a day for 12-20 days before undergoing a 7-day postfermentation
maceration. The wine was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled without
fining or filtration and aged in bottle for 5 months before release.
·
This wine disappoints at this price level
except for an incredibly long finish. The nose is oak driven with aromas of char and toast with very little berry
fruit, even when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. The mid weight core of
purple grape and black raspberry fruits have charm and are more expressive on the palate. The barrel
treatment is noticeable evident in the background. There is good energy and vibrancy, the tannins are gracious,
and the finish is extraordinarily lengthy.
Score: 90.
Reviewed December 13, 2016
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2010 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 5,900 cases, $25, screw
cap. Released October 2011. Sourced from seven estate vineyards and includes fruit from
sustainably-grown vineyards in the Willamette Valley. 100% de-stemmed, extended cold soak, native
yeast fermentation, light pressing just before dryness to ensure a softer, fruit-forward style. Aged for
11 months in 25% new French oak barrels. Bottled without fining and filtration, and aged in bottle for
5 months before release.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Pleasant and nuanced
on the nose, displaying aromas of redder fruits including raspberries, rose petals, and subtle oak. Medium
weight array of sweet red Pinot fruits with a riff of savory herbs. Mild tannins and silky in the mouth. A good
introduction to Oregon Pinot Noir. The day I sampled this, it was 90ºF, and after reviewing the wine, I put some
ice cubes in my glass. This blunted the aromatics but softened the tannins and brought out the fresh red
raspberry and red cherry flavors. Good.
Reviewed May 11, 2012
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2009 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 5,350 cases, pH 3.69, $35, screw cap.
Released April 2011. Sourced from 10 vineyards with the largest portion from Ponzi’s Aurora Vineyard (38%).
100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, lightly pressed at dryness. Aged 11 months in 30% new French oak
barrels and bottled without fining or filtration.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Reasonably
intense aromas of fresh dark plums and berries with a hint of oak and violets. Light in weight, but quite
flavorful, with an array of blue and black berry flavors, enhanced by supple tannins and well-honed acidity. A
solid, dependable wine year in and year out. Good (+).
Reviewed May 11, 2012
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2009 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., pH
3.65, 1,350 cases, $60. Released September 2011. A blend of LIVE Certified
Sustainable fruit from Ponzi’s Aurora, Madrona and Abetina vineyards, as well
as fruit from Linda Vista, Lazy River, Gemini and Lemelson vineyards. 100%
de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, 7-day post fermentation maceration. Aged 20
months in 50% new French oak barrels, then racked and bottled by gravity
without fining or filtration. The wine was aged for 5 months in bottle before
release.
·
Light garnet color in the glass. Brooding aromas of ripe dark red
cherries and berries with a hint of forest floor and flint. Delicious core of wellripened
dark red and purple stone fruits and berries supported by firm fruit
tannins and framed by uplifting acidity. Silky in the mouth and easy to drink, with some finishing persistence.
Not a blockbuster, but enough core fruit to draw your attention. Will benefit from further bottle aging and has
excellent long-term aging prospects. Very good.
Reviewed May 11, 2012
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2008 Ponzi Vineyards Abetina Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc..
·
Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Shy aromas
of blackberry jam and cassis. A big-boned wine that has layers of purple and black
fruits that saturate the palate. There are plenty of muscular tannins evident, yet the
mouthfeel is smooth. The finish is striking with persistent and infused with generous
sweet boysenberry fruit. Cellar this wine mid to long term for full enjoyment.
Score: 93.
Reviewed February 8, 2015
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2008 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc..
·
Moderate reddish purple color in
the glass. Very shy nose with primarily oak and BBQ aromas with no fruit appearing over time. Still very
reserved and rugged with full bodied flavors of black raspberry, boysenberry, cassis, spice and toasty oak. The
tannins are still mildly foreboding. Best to cellar this wine several more years.
Score: 89-90.
Reviewed February 8, 2015
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2008 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Arneis
13.7% alc., 250 cases, $20. Something different in a dry
wine. First planted by the Ponzis in 1991, they are one of only three Arneis producers in the United States.
The grape originated in the Northern Piedmonte region of Italy. Whole cluster pressed and cool fermented in
stainless steel and French oak barrels.
·
Full of vim and vigor, this wine is endowed with bright flavors of pears,
green apples and citrus. The lively acidity provides a refreshing finish that has the slightest sweetness.
Reviewed August 17, 2009
ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., pH 3.71, 5,350 cases, $35,
screw cap. Sourced from 8 sustainably farmed vineyards with the largest percentage (30%) from
Aurora Vineyard. Aged in 30% new French oak barrels for 11 months.
·
Moderate reddish-purple
color in the glass. Nicely perfumed nose with aromas of dark Pinot fruits dominated by black
cherries. Intensely flavored with sweet, dark stone fruits and black raspberries with a slight
confected note and a grip of citrus in the background. The impressively vivid fruit is wrapped in
fine-grain ripe tannins, persisting on the highly aromatic finish. A real crowd pleasure that will drink nicely for
several years. Very good.
Reviewed January 27, 2011
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2008 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., $60 (sold out at the
winery). A blend of several old vineyards primarily grown on Laurelwood soils in the Chehalem Mountains AVA.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of dark berry jam and plum pudding with a hint of
stem and underbrush. Spicy and sweet array of red and black berry flavors robed in firm, muscular tannins,
finishing with lively acidity and a floral note. Solid but not exceptional now. Good.
Reviewed January 12, 2012
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2008 Ponzi Vineyards Abetina Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., 100
cases, pH 3.66, $100, etched bottle. From a 2-acre site planted in 1975 as part of an
Oregon Clonal Test site with over 20 different Pinot Noir clones planted. Located on an
east-facing slope in the Chehalem Mountains AVA on Laurelwood soil. Produced only in
special vintages (1998, 1999, 2005 and 2008). 100% de-stemmed. 7-day post-fermentation
maceration. Aged 20 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered
and aged in bottle for 5 months before release.
·
Moderately deep, dark reddish-purple color
in the glass. Very shy nose, offering subtle aromas of blackberry jam, plums, spice and a
hint of toasty oak. Delicious core of ripe dark red and black fruits, especially plum and
olallieberry, with a hint of anise and oak. The prodigious fruit has a savory edge and is
nicely complimented by firm tannins and juicy acidity. Silky smooth in the mouth with
amazing fruit-driven persistence on the finish. A serious wine for connoisseurs that is pouty
at present with the structure trumping the fruit. This wine will benefit from several years in the cellar.
Very good (+).
Reviewed January 27, 2011
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2008 Ponzi Vineyards Aurora Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5%
alc., pH 3.70, 50 cases, $100, etched bottle. Over 70 acres, first established in
1991. This bottling comes from a special section planted as own rooted Dijon
clone 777 in 1995. 100% de-stemmed. 7-day post-fermentation maceration.
Aged for 20 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered and
aged 5 months in bottle before release.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in
the glass. Offering very little charm on the nose with demure scents of dark red
fruits, polished woods and brioche. Intense and mouth coating flavors of dark red cherries
and raspberries, with a citrus note in the background. The massive fruit is largely buried in substantial tannins and the wine is
not offering the whole package at this time. Much better two days later from a previously
opened and re-corked bottle. A little more showy and youthful than the companion Abetina Vineyard
bottling. Cellar at least 3 to 5 years and then open the wine on a special occasion.
Reviewed January 27, 2011
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2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley “Rosato” Rosé of Pinot Noir
12.9% alc., $17, screw cap. 100%
Pinot Noir either sourced for Rosato or the result of a saigneé. Grapes come from Ponzi Estate Vineyard and
Dion Vineyards.
·
Appealing salmon color. Pinot Noir in its most pure state, fresh and lively strawberry and red
cherry flavors. A good wine for summer BBQ.
Reviewed September 15, 2008
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2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.3% alc.,8,200 cases, $17, screw cap. Initial Pinot
Gris plantings at Ponzi date to 1978. Fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks.
·
Crisp white
peach aromas and flavors with lively acidity in an Oregonian rather than Alsatian style. Ponzi excels at this
variety and I found it perfectly suited to summer dishes.
Reviewed September 15, 2008
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2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.3% alc., 8,200 cases, $17,
screw cap.
·
Faint yellow- color. Tropical fruits and grass with a hint of petrol. Demure
fruit with racy acidity, a hint of spritz and a dry finish.
Reviewed March 26, 2009
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2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Chardonnay
11.86% alc., 542 cases, $20, screw cap. Stainless
steel fermented. Sourced from seven vineyards including Ponzi Estate and Dion Vineyards, both over 30
years old.
·
Bright and frisky with enjoyable tropical aromas and flavors including banana and pineapple. A good
food companion.
Reviewed September 15, 2008
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2007 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., 5,104 cases, $25.
A blend of sixvineyards and consisting of all LIVE Certified Sustainable fruit. After an extended
cold soak, fermentation continued was driven by native yeasts. Aged in 25% new French oak
for 11 months. Following a barrel selection, the wine was racked and bottled by gravity
without fining or filtration.
·
A mid-weight wine with nicely spiced red cherry aromas carrying
over to the flavors. Silky textured with fine tannins and a refreshing finish with lively acidity.
Reviewed March 26, 2009
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2007 Ponzi Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 6,764 cases, $35. A blend
of fruit from multiple sustainable vineyards. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak,
fermenters aerated or punched down before lightly pressing at dryness. Aged in
30% new French oak barrels for 11 months. Aged in bottle 5 months before
release.
·
This wine was served along with the two 2007 red Burgundies from
Domaine Fourrier and got somewhat lost in the competition. The Fourrier wines
were two of the best I tasted during my July visit to Oregon this year. That said,
the Ponzi Willamette Valley is a dependable wine that is styled more elegantly
than the Reserve. Red fruits were at the forefront with hints of savory herbs, oak and grilled meats. Nicely
composed and quite decent.
Reviewed August 17, 2009
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2006 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $25, 4,000 cases, screw
cap. A blend of six vineyards.
·
Light in color. Nice cherry aromatics, modest and pleasant red fruits with
an herbal and chocolate note and healthy acidity. A great picnic wine.
Reviewed January 30, 2008
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2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Chardonnay
14.2% alc., 416 cases, $30. Barrel
fermented, 100% MLF Chardonnay from Dijon clones. 18 months of barrel aging and 6 months of bottle aging. Unfiltered.
·
Buttery and fruity but retains brisk acidity. Mildly viscous in the mouth with attractive notes of
tropical fruits, tart apple and honey and a little spice to boot. Restrained but showy and a winner on all counts.
Reviewed September 15, 2008
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2006 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 6,000 cases, $35. Fermented in small lots
with five days of cold soak. Manual punchdowns before lightly pressing at dryness. Aged in 30% new French
oak for 11 months. Bottled without fining or filtration and aged five months in bottle before release.
·
A decent
Pinot with simple aromas and flavors of cherries, cranberries and strawberries with an oaky component.
Slightly velvety in texture with a good acidic charge on the clean finish.
Reviewed September 15, 2008
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2006 Ponzi Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 700
cases, $60. Produced from LIVE Sustainable vineyards planted
primarily on Laurelwood soil. The blend is selected from Ponzi’s
Madrona, Abetina and Aurora Vineyards as well as fruit sourced from
Gemini, Linda Vista Vineyards and Lazy River Vineyards. 100% destemmed.
Five day cold soak. Fermenters were aerated or manually
punched down twice a day for 12-20 days. 7-day post-fermentation
maceration. Aged in 50% new oak barrels for 20 months. Unfined and unfiltered and aged in bottle five
months before release.
·
A regal wine with a lovely perfume that is both floral and intensely fruity. In the mouth,
beautiful dark fruits are nicely spiced and adeptly framed by oak. Long, stylish and smooth with impeccable
balance. Simply a great wine and an impressive followup to the incredible 2005 Ponzi Reserve.
Reviewed December 17, 2008
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2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 700 cases, $60. The flagship Pinot Noir of Ponzi
Vineyards and an outstanding wine in each vintage. The blend is
selected from older vines of Ponzi’s Madrona, Abetina and Aurora
vineyards as well as purchased fruit. Winemaking is
similar as for the Willamette Valley blend except a seven day postfermentation
maceration is used to increase structure and length.
Aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 20 months. Bottled unfined and
unfiltered and aged in bottle for five months before release.
·
A complete wine of great breeding. Lovely
aromatics featuring bright cherry and Satsuma plum fruit nicely spiced. Gorgeous stone fruit with subtle earth,
oak and tea notes expands in the mouth leaving a lasting and memorable impression. Very harmonious,
smooth and stylish. Still tight and will need another year or two to reach a more lofty peak. I have been
buying this wine every vintage since 1992.
Reviewed September 15, 2008
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2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.3%
alc., 2,100 cases, $60. An outstanding wine in every vintage and one that
I have been buying since 1992. The wine is a blend of grapes from the
older vines of Ponzi’s Madrona, Abetina and Aurora vineyards with
smaller amounts of purchased fruit. Fermented in small lots with 5 days
of cold soak. 7 days of post fermentation maceration to increase
structure and length. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 20 months.
Bottled unfined and unfiltered and aged in bottle for five months before release.
·
Enticing aromas of black cherry and Satsuma plum nicely spiced. The stone fruits deluge the mid-palate with
richness which is augmented by subtle notes of earth, oak and tea. Very harmonious and stylish. Drinking
beautifully now but will last.
Reviewed August 17, 2009
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2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $85 (current winery price). A blend
of several vineyards, primarily Laurelwood soils in the Chehalem Mountains.
·
Initially brooding, but opens over
time in the glass to reveal appealing scents of dark red and black Pinot fruits with a hint of black tea, earth and
spice box. Ripe, dark fruit flavors, vivid and concentrated, with soft tannins. Reflective of a warmer vintage,
this remains a beautiful representation of the year and will find fans of intensely fruity Pinot Noir. Very good.
Reviewed January 27, 2011
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2005 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $35, 4,666 cases. A blend of grapes
from five vineyards.
·
Complex nose featuring dark berries and cherries with earthy, woodsy and floral
highlights. Dark Pinot fruits, herbal but not herbaceous, soft and full, with a viscous mouth feel, clean finish
and an oaky edge to the aftertaste.
Reviewed January 30, 2008
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2005 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $60, 3,000 cases. Sourced primarily from the Chehalem Mountain
AVA including estate Madrona, Aurora and Abetina vineyards. Aged
for 20 months in 50% new French oak.
·
Aged
for 20 months in 50% new French oak. This has a “Oh! My God” nose
showing crushed black cherries and baking spices. Very lovely. Dark berry-cherry fruit which is velvety on the palate. Seamless. Very good and maybe even orgasmic.
Don’t miss this one.
Reviewed January 30, 2008
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2005 Ponzi Abetina Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5%
alc., 100 cases, $100, etched . The Abetina Vineyard is a 2-acre
vineyard established in 1975 and planted to 20 different Pinot Noir
clones. Grapes from this vineyard are often put into the Ponzi
Reserve Pinot Noir and a separate vineyard-designate is only made
in exceptional vintages.
·
Redolent with both red and black spiced
cherries along with dried herbs and sprinkled with cinnamon, this wine is
plush, supple and delicious. There are some unresolved tannins, but they
are fine and sweet. This wine charms with its discreet concentrated fruit. A
striking wine that is in a class by itself.
Reviewed August 19, 2008
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2005 Ponzi Vineyads Il Luce Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $100, 600 bottles, etched
bottle. From a 1-acre estate vineyard planted in 2003 with clone 777.
·
The wine is driven by black cherry
and black berry flavors so typical of clone 777. Sandalwood and floral accents enhance the shy aromatics.
A decent wine with good intensity and firm tannins, but like a teenager, lacks maturity and is still a bit
awkward. Plan to cellar this one.
Reviewed January 30, 2008
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2005 Ponzi Vineyards Abetina Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $100, 1200
bottles, etched bottle. From a 2-acre vineyard established in 1975 and
planted to 20 different clones. Grapes from this vineyard are often put into the
Reserve Pinot Noir. This wine is only made in exceptional vintages.
·
Wow, superlatives
just don’t do this outrageous wine justice. A BIG tasty wine that reminds
me of a 2004 Mugnier Bonnes Mares that I drank the night before with a little more
New World punch. Plush black cherry extract, dark chocolate, gingerbread and
spice. Impeccable balance with a solid tannic backbone for aging and a sensuous
satiny texture. Fine to drink now for its hedonism, but this will improve over the
next five years. This is just plain terrific and what I affectionately call a “glamazon.”
Reviewed January 30, 2008
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2002 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8%
alc..
·
Enticing, flamboyant aromas of black cherries and spiced red plums.
Flavors of dark red fruits, cherry pie filling and a hint of juicy fruit coat the
mouth and fan out on the generous finish. Very harmonious with melded
tannins. A marvelous drink at its apogee from one of Oregon’s greatest
vintages. I wish I had more bottles in my cellar.
Reviewed January 27, 2011
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2000 Ponzi Vineyards
This beauty is retaining an intense red-violet color and fairly plush black cherry and cranberry fruit. There is a lovely hint of herbs and a touch of alcohol on the nose. Very clean and enjoyable. Tasted November 7, 2008.
Reviewed --/--/--
1993 Ponzi Vineyards
Luisa Ponzi's first vintage as winemaker. One of the featured wines in the inaugural Salud Oregon Wine Auction in 1993. A warm, dry vintage with a late harvest, rain not appearing until late October. The wine has a very slight brown-orange rim. Spice and leather on the nose which fades rather quickly. Initially the flavors of raisin, prune and root beer are very appealing but do diminish with time in the glass. Still has commendable acidity. Tasted November 7, 2008.
Reviewed --/--/--
2018 Ponzi Abetina 2 Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.53, 200 cases, $110. Fruit from Abetina 2 block at Aurora Vineyard. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, 7-day postfermentation maceration, Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Aged in bottle for 5 months before release. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Beautifully perfumed with aromas of dark cherry, tilled earth and truffle. Darker hued and darker fruited in a mid-weight style featuring flavors of black cherry, purple grape, blackberry, cinnamon spice, dark chocolate, and vanilla. The moderately firm tannic spine moderates the fruit load. The texture reminds one of silk pajamas. An extremely persistent grand cru finish is exhilarating. Over time in the glass, the wine builds in hedonistic pleasure offering a charming spiciness. When tasted two days later from a previously opened bottle, the wine woke up the mouth with dreamy goodness. Score: 97. Reviewed May 29, 2022 ARTICLE »
2017 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Rosé
13.0% alc., pH 3.29, RS 3.0 g/L, $23, screw cap. 24-hour maceration after de-stemming and pressed to stainless steel for a cool fermentation. Malolactic fermentation inhibited. A portion was fermented in neutral French oak barrels and allowed to complete malolactic to add a touch of creaminess to the mid palate. · Moderate coral pink color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of red berry, rose and seasoned barrique. Pleasingly dry with bright acidity, offering flavors of strawberry and blood orange. Score: 89. Reviewed May 12, 2018 ARTICLE »
2014 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.2% alc., pH 4.2, RS 0.57, 17,000 cases, $17, screwcap. Ponzi was one of the pioneers of this varietal, with first plantings in 1978. The wine is produced from certified sustainable Ponzi Aurora, Avellana and Estate Vineyards, as well as multiple other vineyards. Fermented in stainless steel tanks, malolactic fermentation prohibited. · Very light platinum gold and clear in the glass. Invigorating aromas of fresh apple, lychee, pear, marzipan and wet chalkboard. Clean, crisp and refreshing, with flavors of lemon oil, mango, pear and apple, finishing with a bright cut of acidity. A versatile wine that will enliven a variety of foods or satisfy on its own. Score: 89. Reviewed April 5, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Rosé
13.2% alc., pH 3.25, RS 0.34, 1,500 cases, $20, screwcap. A blend of fruit from Merten and Dion vineyards, and saignée from Ponzi’s finest Pinot Noir lots. 100% de-stemmed, stainless steel tank fermentation, malolactic fermentation inhibited. · Moderately deep pink salmon color in the glass. Perfume of fresh strawberries, crushed cranberries and rose petal lead to pleasing flavors of strawberry, cherry and white stone fruits. The experience is like biting into a fresh, ripe strawberry. Clean and vivid, with balanced acidity and a dry finish. Score: 89. Reviewed April 5, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Ponzi Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc
13.4% alc., pH 3.23, RS 1.8 g/L, $20, screwcap. Sourced from Aurora Vineyard (Ponzi’s LIVE Certified Sustainable vineyard - 74%), Zenith Vineyard (19%) and Thistle Vineyard (7%). Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Malolactic fermentation prohibited. · Very light golden yellow color in the glass. Demure aromas of poached pear, nectarine and honey lead to a light bodied, but flavorful, core of white stone fruits with a hint of citrus. A delicate, but pleasant wine with a slightly sweet finish. This wine is more akin to Pinot Gris than Chardonnay and will pair well with shellfish and quiche. Score: 88. Reviewed June 14, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $25, screwcap. Sourced from multiple sustainably-grown vineyards throughout the Willamette Valley. Extended cold soak, native yeast fermentation, aged in French oak barrels, 20% new, for 11 months. Unfined and unfiltered. Aged 7 months in bottle before release. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Highly fragrant with aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, cola and toasty oak leaping from the glass. Noticeably fresh and energetic, with a juicy core of cherry fruit augmented with a light touch of oak. Beautifully integrated acidity drives the palate in the forward-drinking, food-friendly and enjoyable wine. Score: 89. Reviewed November 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2014 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., $27, screwcap. Winemaker Luisa Ponzi blends wines from many sites that reflect the vintage and the winemaker’s hand, but with an aim toward accessibility. Named Tavola (Italian for table) precisely to indicate this is an everyday wine. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of black cherry and spice lead to a satisfying mid weight essence of black cherry, blueberry and pomegranate fruit flavors accented with a hint of oak spice. Gentle, silky tannins make for easy drinking. A standout among the entry level wines tasted. Score: 90. Reviewed August 29, 2016 ARTICLE »
2014 Ponzi Avellana Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., pH 3.73, 110 cases, $105. Released November 2016. Crafted exclusively from Ponzi’s LIVE Certified Sustainable Avellana Vineyard. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in small lots after a 5-day cold soak. Fermenters were aerated or manually punched down twice a day for 12-20 days before undergoing a 7-day post-fermentation cold soak. The wine was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 50% new, bottled unfined and unfiltered, and aged 5 months in bottle before release. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, soy sauce and forest floor lead to a delicious core of cherry and raspberry fruits lifted with bright acidity. Very charming in the mouth with a soft texture, spice accents, and an exuberant, showy finish filled with exuberant grape essence. Score: 93. Reviewed December 13, 2016 ARTICLE »
2013 Ponzi Reserve Willamette Valley Chardonnay
13.4% alc., pH 3.46, 1,350 cases, $35. Released July 2015. A blend of LIVE Certified Sustainable fruit from Ponzi’s Aurora and Avellana vineyards, as well as fruit from Sunset View and Thistle vineyards. Whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented using partial wild yeast. 100% malolactic fermentation. Lees stirring once a week for 6 months and racked after 12 months to neutral oak. After 20 months of barrel age, blended and bottled. Aged in bottle 3 months before release. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Appealing aromas of lemon-lime soda, lemon curd, brioche and saline. Slightly viscous on the palate and very suave and clean, with flavors of lemon, yellow apple, spice and vanilla wafer. Gorgeous balance with a bright, citrus driven finish of uncommon length for a Chardonnay. Score: 92. Reviewed November 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., pH 3.68, $40. Released September 2015. A blend from Ponzi’s Aurora and Avellana vineyards as well as nine other vineyards. 5-day cold soak, aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 35% new, and aged 5 months in bottle. Unfined and unfiltered. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Very little black cherry fruit on the nose with a strong cigar box scent. Mid weight core of black cherry fruit with complimentary oak and spice accents, backed by svelte tannins. Easy to drink, with a modest finish. Score: 87. Reviewed November 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., pH 3.55, 1,250 cases, $60. A blend of LIVE Certified Sustainable fruit from Ponzi’s Aurora, Abetina and Madrona vineyards, as well as fruit from Linda Vista, Kason, Zenith and Walnut Ridge vineyards. Primarily grapes grown in Laurelwood soils in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, 7-day post-fermentation maceration, and aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 30% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and aged an additional 5 months before release. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Shy, but pleasing aromas of cherry, raspberry, herbs, nuts and nori. The array of darker red cherry and berry fruit really sparkles on the palate which offers added accents of black tea, savory dried herbs and toasty oak. Silky tannins add a seductive mouthfeel. This is a giving wine upon opening, but becomes noticeably better over time in the glass. Decant or hold in your cellar for full enjoyment. Score: 91. Reviewed November 22, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Chardonnay
13.8% alc., $32. A blend of Dijon clones grown primarily on Laurelwood soils. · Light golden yellow color and clear in the glass. Aromas of forest path, nutty oak and flint. A simple wine with a soft mouthfeel and pleasing citrus flavors backed by prevalent nutty oak. The slippery finish has more citrus-fueled intensity than the entry. A sulfur note rises up on the finish. Score: 86. Reviewed July 9, 2016 ARTICLE »
2012 Ponzi Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.3% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.57, 8,000 cases, $40, screwcap. This wine is considered a benchmark Oregon Pinot Noir. It is a blend of certified sustainable fruit from some of the oldest and finest vineyards in the Willamette Valley, including Ponzi’s Madrona and Aurora vineyards, as well as Avellana Vineyard, which is planted entirely by clonal massale. Aged for 11 months in 100% French oak barrels, 35% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Enticing mix of black cherry, Asian 5-spice and smoky oak aromas. Like the nose, the wine offers an inviting marriage of black cherry and marionberry fruit with spicy oak. Forward drinking, with balanced tannins and some finishing power. Score: 89. Reviewed September 29, 2015 ARTICLE »
2011 Ponzi Abetina 2 Chehalem Mountains Oregon Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.60,125 cases, $145. Released September 2013. A single vineyard cuvée crafted from Abetina 2 block at Ponzi’s LIVE Certified Sustainable Aurora Vineyard. 100% de-stemmed, fermented in small lots after a 5-day cold soak. Fermenters were aerated or manually punched down twice a day for 12-20 days before undergoing a 7-day postfermentation maceration. The wine was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled without fining or filtration and aged in bottle for 5 months before release. · This wine disappoints at this price level except for an incredibly long finish. The nose is oak driven with aromas of char and toast with very little berry fruit, even when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. The mid weight core of purple grape and black raspberry fruits have charm and are more expressive on the palate. The barrel treatment is noticeable evident in the background. There is good energy and vibrancy, the tannins are gracious, and the finish is extraordinarily lengthy. Score: 90. Reviewed December 13, 2016 ARTICLE »
2010 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 5,900 cases, $25, screw cap. Released October 2011. Sourced from seven estate vineyards and includes fruit from sustainably-grown vineyards in the Willamette Valley. 100% de-stemmed, extended cold soak, native yeast fermentation, light pressing just before dryness to ensure a softer, fruit-forward style. Aged for 11 months in 25% new French oak barrels. Bottled without fining and filtration, and aged in bottle for 5 months before release. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Pleasant and nuanced on the nose, displaying aromas of redder fruits including raspberries, rose petals, and subtle oak. Medium weight array of sweet red Pinot fruits with a riff of savory herbs. Mild tannins and silky in the mouth. A good introduction to Oregon Pinot Noir. The day I sampled this, it was 90ºF, and after reviewing the wine, I put some ice cubes in my glass. This blunted the aromatics but softened the tannins and brought out the fresh red raspberry and red cherry flavors. Good. Reviewed May 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 5,350 cases, pH 3.69, $35, screw cap. Released April 2011. Sourced from 10 vineyards with the largest portion from Ponzi’s Aurora Vineyard (38%). 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, lightly pressed at dryness. Aged 11 months in 30% new French oak barrels and bottled without fining or filtration. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Reasonably intense aromas of fresh dark plums and berries with a hint of oak and violets. Light in weight, but quite flavorful, with an array of blue and black berry flavors, enhanced by supple tannins and well-honed acidity. A solid, dependable wine year in and year out. Good (+). Reviewed May 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., pH 3.65, 1,350 cases, $60. Released September 2011. A blend of LIVE Certified Sustainable fruit from Ponzi’s Aurora, Madrona and Abetina vineyards, as well as fruit from Linda Vista, Lazy River, Gemini and Lemelson vineyards. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, 7-day post fermentation maceration. Aged 20 months in 50% new French oak barrels, then racked and bottled by gravity without fining or filtration. The wine was aged for 5 months in bottle before release. · Light garnet color in the glass. Brooding aromas of ripe dark red cherries and berries with a hint of forest floor and flint. Delicious core of wellripened dark red and purple stone fruits and berries supported by firm fruit tannins and framed by uplifting acidity. Silky in the mouth and easy to drink, with some finishing persistence. Not a blockbuster, but enough core fruit to draw your attention. Will benefit from further bottle aging and has excellent long-term aging prospects. Very good. Reviewed May 11, 2012 ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Abetina Vineyard Chehalem Mountains Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc.. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Shy aromas of blackberry jam and cassis. A big-boned wine that has layers of purple and black fruits that saturate the palate. There are plenty of muscular tannins evident, yet the mouthfeel is smooth. The finish is striking with persistent and infused with generous sweet boysenberry fruit. Cellar this wine mid to long term for full enjoyment. Score: 93. Reviewed February 8, 2015 ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc.. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Very shy nose with primarily oak and BBQ aromas with no fruit appearing over time. Still very reserved and rugged with full bodied flavors of black raspberry, boysenberry, cassis, spice and toasty oak. The tannins are still mildly foreboding. Best to cellar this wine several more years. Score: 89-90. Reviewed February 8, 2015 ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Arneis
13.7% alc., 250 cases, $20. Something different in a dry wine. First planted by the Ponzis in 1991, they are one of only three Arneis producers in the United States. The grape originated in the Northern Piedmonte region of Italy. Whole cluster pressed and cool fermented in stainless steel and French oak barrels. · Full of vim and vigor, this wine is endowed with bright flavors of pears, green apples and citrus. The lively acidity provides a refreshing finish that has the slightest sweetness. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., pH 3.71, 5,350 cases, $35, screw cap. Sourced from 8 sustainably farmed vineyards with the largest percentage (30%) from Aurora Vineyard. Aged in 30% new French oak barrels for 11 months. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed nose with aromas of dark Pinot fruits dominated by black cherries. Intensely flavored with sweet, dark stone fruits and black raspberries with a slight confected note and a grip of citrus in the background. The impressively vivid fruit is wrapped in fine-grain ripe tannins, persisting on the highly aromatic finish. A real crowd pleasure that will drink nicely for several years. Very good. Reviewed January 27, 2011 ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Oregon Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., $60 (sold out at the winery). A blend of several old vineyards primarily grown on Laurelwood soils in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of dark berry jam and plum pudding with a hint of stem and underbrush. Spicy and sweet array of red and black berry flavors robed in firm, muscular tannins, finishing with lively acidity and a floral note. Solid but not exceptional now. Good. Reviewed January 12, 2012 ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Abetina Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.0% alc., 100 cases, pH 3.66, $100, etched bottle. From a 2-acre site planted in 1975 as part of an Oregon Clonal Test site with over 20 different Pinot Noir clones planted. Located on an east-facing slope in the Chehalem Mountains AVA on Laurelwood soil. Produced only in special vintages (1998, 1999, 2005 and 2008). 100% de-stemmed. 7-day post-fermentation maceration. Aged 20 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and aged in bottle for 5 months before release. · Moderately deep, dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Very shy nose, offering subtle aromas of blackberry jam, plums, spice and a hint of toasty oak. Delicious core of ripe dark red and black fruits, especially plum and olallieberry, with a hint of anise and oak. The prodigious fruit has a savory edge and is nicely complimented by firm tannins and juicy acidity. Silky smooth in the mouth with amazing fruit-driven persistence on the finish. A serious wine for connoisseurs that is pouty at present with the structure trumping the fruit. This wine will benefit from several years in the cellar. Very good (+). Reviewed January 27, 2011 ARTICLE »
2008 Ponzi Vineyards Aurora Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., pH 3.70, 50 cases, $100, etched bottle. Over 70 acres, first established in 1991. This bottling comes from a special section planted as own rooted Dijon clone 777 in 1995. 100% de-stemmed. 7-day post-fermentation maceration. Aged for 20 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Unfined and unfiltered and aged 5 months in bottle before release. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Offering very little charm on the nose with demure scents of dark red fruits, polished woods and brioche. Intense and mouth coating flavors of dark red cherries and raspberries, with a citrus note in the background. The massive fruit is largely buried in substantial tannins and the wine is not offering the whole package at this time. Much better two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A little more showy and youthful than the companion Abetina Vineyard bottling. Cellar at least 3 to 5 years and then open the wine on a special occasion. Reviewed January 27, 2011 ARTICLE »
2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley “Rosato” Rosé of Pinot Noir
12.9% alc., $17, screw cap. 100% Pinot Noir either sourced for Rosato or the result of a saigneé. Grapes come from Ponzi Estate Vineyard and Dion Vineyards. · Appealing salmon color. Pinot Noir in its most pure state, fresh and lively strawberry and red cherry flavors. A good wine for summer BBQ. Reviewed September 15, 2008 ARTICLE »
2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.3% alc.,8,200 cases, $17, screw cap. Initial Pinot Gris plantings at Ponzi date to 1978. Fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. · Crisp white peach aromas and flavors with lively acidity in an Oregonian rather than Alsatian style. Ponzi excels at this variety and I found it perfectly suited to summer dishes. Reviewed September 15, 2008 ARTICLE »
2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
13.3% alc., 8,200 cases, $17, screw cap. · Faint yellow- color. Tropical fruits and grass with a hint of petrol. Demure fruit with racy acidity, a hint of spritz and a dry finish. Reviewed March 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Chardonnay
11.86% alc., 542 cases, $20, screw cap. Stainless steel fermented. Sourced from seven vineyards including Ponzi Estate and Dion Vineyards, both over 30 years old. · Bright and frisky with enjoyable tropical aromas and flavors including banana and pineapple. A good food companion. Reviewed September 15, 2008 ARTICLE »
2007 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.2% alc., 5,104 cases, $25. A blend of sixvineyards and consisting of all LIVE Certified Sustainable fruit. After an extended cold soak, fermentation continued was driven by native yeasts. Aged in 25% new French oak for 11 months. Following a barrel selection, the wine was racked and bottled by gravity without fining or filtration. · A mid-weight wine with nicely spiced red cherry aromas carrying over to the flavors. Silky textured with fine tannins and a refreshing finish with lively acidity. Reviewed March 26, 2009 ARTICLE »
2007 Ponzi Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., 6,764 cases, $35. A blend of fruit from multiple sustainable vineyards. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, fermenters aerated or punched down before lightly pressing at dryness. Aged in 30% new French oak barrels for 11 months. Aged in bottle 5 months before release. · This wine was served along with the two 2007 red Burgundies from Domaine Fourrier and got somewhat lost in the competition. The Fourrier wines were two of the best I tasted during my July visit to Oregon this year. That said, the Ponzi Willamette Valley is a dependable wine that is styled more elegantly than the Reserve. Red fruits were at the forefront with hints of savory herbs, oak and grilled meats. Nicely composed and quite decent. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 Ponzi Vineyards Tavola Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $25, 4,000 cases, screw cap. A blend of six vineyards. · Light in color. Nice cherry aromatics, modest and pleasant red fruits with an herbal and chocolate note and healthy acidity. A great picnic wine. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Chardonnay
14.2% alc., 416 cases, $30. Barrel fermented, 100% MLF Chardonnay from Dijon clones. 18 months of barrel aging and 6 months of bottle aging. Unfiltered. · Buttery and fruity but retains brisk acidity. Mildly viscous in the mouth with attractive notes of tropical fruits, tart apple and honey and a little spice to boot. Restrained but showy and a winner on all counts. Reviewed September 15, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 6,000 cases, $35. Fermented in small lots with five days of cold soak. Manual punchdowns before lightly pressing at dryness. Aged in 30% new French oak for 11 months. Bottled without fining or filtration and aged five months in bottle before release. · A decent Pinot with simple aromas and flavors of cherries, cranberries and strawberries with an oaky component. Slightly velvety in texture with a good acidic charge on the clean finish. Reviewed September 15, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Ponzi Reserve Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 700 cases, $60. Produced from LIVE Sustainable vineyards planted primarily on Laurelwood soil. The blend is selected from Ponzi’s Madrona, Abetina and Aurora Vineyards as well as fruit sourced from Gemini, Linda Vista Vineyards and Lazy River Vineyards. 100% destemmed. Five day cold soak. Fermenters were aerated or manually punched down twice a day for 12-20 days. 7-day post-fermentation maceration. Aged in 50% new oak barrels for 20 months. Unfined and unfiltered and aged in bottle five months before release. · A regal wine with a lovely perfume that is both floral and intensely fruity. In the mouth, beautiful dark fruits are nicely spiced and adeptly framed by oak. Long, stylish and smooth with impeccable balance. Simply a great wine and an impressive followup to the incredible 2005 Ponzi Reserve. Reviewed December 17, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 700 cases, $60. The flagship Pinot Noir of Ponzi Vineyards and an outstanding wine in each vintage. The blend is selected from older vines of Ponzi’s Madrona, Abetina and Aurora vineyards as well as purchased fruit. Winemaking is similar as for the Willamette Valley blend except a seven day postfermentation maceration is used to increase structure and length. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 20 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and aged in bottle for five months before release. · A complete wine of great breeding. Lovely aromatics featuring bright cherry and Satsuma plum fruit nicely spiced. Gorgeous stone fruit with subtle earth, oak and tea notes expands in the mouth leaving a lasting and memorable impression. Very harmonious, smooth and stylish. Still tight and will need another year or two to reach a more lofty peak. I have been buying this wine every vintage since 1992. Reviewed September 15, 2008 ARTICLE »
2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
14.3% alc., 2,100 cases, $60. An outstanding wine in every vintage and one that I have been buying since 1992. The wine is a blend of grapes from the older vines of Ponzi’s Madrona, Abetina and Aurora vineyards with smaller amounts of purchased fruit. Fermented in small lots with 5 days of cold soak. 7 days of post fermentation maceration to increase structure and length. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 20 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered and aged in bottle for five months before release. · Enticing aromas of black cherry and Satsuma plum nicely spiced. The stone fruits deluge the mid-palate with richness which is augmented by subtle notes of earth, oak and tea. Very harmonious and stylish. Drinking beautifully now but will last. Reviewed August 17, 2009 ARTICLE »
2006 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $85 (current winery price). A blend of several vineyards, primarily Laurelwood soils in the Chehalem Mountains. · Initially brooding, but opens over time in the glass to reveal appealing scents of dark red and black Pinot fruits with a hint of black tea, earth and spice box. Ripe, dark fruit flavors, vivid and concentrated, with soft tannins. Reflective of a warmer vintage, this remains a beautiful representation of the year and will find fans of intensely fruity Pinot Noir. Very good. Reviewed January 27, 2011 ARTICLE »
2005 Ponzi Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., $35, 4,666 cases. A blend of grapes from five vineyards. · Complex nose featuring dark berries and cherries with earthy, woodsy and floral highlights. Dark Pinot fruits, herbal but not herbaceous, soft and full, with a viscous mouth feel, clean finish and an oaky edge to the aftertaste. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.6% alc., $60, 3,000 cases. Sourced primarily from the Chehalem Mountain AVA including estate Madrona, Aurora and Abetina vineyards. Aged for 20 months in 50% new French oak. · Aged for 20 months in 50% new French oak. This has a “Oh! My God” nose showing crushed black cherries and baking spices. Very lovely. Dark berry-cherry fruit which is velvety on the palate. Seamless. Very good and maybe even orgasmic. Don’t miss this one. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Ponzi Abetina Vineyard Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., 100 cases, $100, etched . The Abetina Vineyard is a 2-acre vineyard established in 1975 and planted to 20 different Pinot Noir clones. Grapes from this vineyard are often put into the Ponzi Reserve Pinot Noir and a separate vineyard-designate is only made in exceptional vintages. · Redolent with both red and black spiced cherries along with dried herbs and sprinkled with cinnamon, this wine is plush, supple and delicious. There are some unresolved tannins, but they are fine and sweet. This wine charms with its discreet concentrated fruit. A striking wine that is in a class by itself. Reviewed August 19, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Ponzi Vineyads Il Luce Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $100, 600 bottles, etched bottle. From a 1-acre estate vineyard planted in 2003 with clone 777. · The wine is driven by black cherry and black berry flavors so typical of clone 777. Sandalwood and floral accents enhance the shy aromatics. A decent wine with good intensity and firm tannins, but like a teenager, lacks maturity and is still a bit awkward. Plan to cellar this one. Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »
2005 Ponzi Vineyards Abetina Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $100, 1200 bottles, etched bottle. From a 2-acre vineyard established in 1975 and planted to 20 different clones. Grapes from this vineyard are often put into the Reserve Pinot Noir. This wine is only made in exceptional vintages. · Wow, superlatives just don’t do this outrageous wine justice. A BIG tasty wine that reminds me of a 2004 Mugnier Bonnes Mares that I drank the night before with a little more New World punch. Plush black cherry extract, dark chocolate, gingerbread and spice. Impeccable balance with a solid tannic backbone for aging and a sensuous satiny texture. Fine to drink now for its hedonism, but this will improve over the next five years. This is just plain terrific and what I affectionately call a “glamazon.” Reviewed January 30, 2008 ARTICLE »
2002 Ponzi Vineyards Reserve Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
13.8% alc.. · Enticing, flamboyant aromas of black cherries and spiced red plums. Flavors of dark red fruits, cherry pie filling and a hint of juicy fruit coat the mouth and fan out on the generous finish. Very harmonious with melded tannins. A marvelous drink at its apogee from one of Oregon’s greatest vintages. I wish I had more bottles in my cellar. Reviewed January 27, 2011 ARTICLE »
2000 Ponzi Vineyards
This beauty is retaining an intense red-violet color and fairly plush black cherry and cranberry fruit. There is a lovely hint of herbs and a touch of alcohol on the nose. Very clean and enjoyable. Tasted November 7, 2008. Reviewed --/--/--
1993 Ponzi Vineyards
Luisa Ponzi's first vintage as winemaker. One of the featured wines in the inaugural Salud Oregon Wine Auction in 1993. A warm, dry vintage with a late harvest, rain not appearing until late October. The wine has a very slight brown-orange rim. Spice and leather on the nose which fades rather quickly. Initially the flavors of raisin, prune and root beer are very appealing but do diminish with time in the glass. Still has commendable acidity. Tasted November 7, 2008. Reviewed --/--/--