By: AJ McClellan
We had Maria Ponzi in from Ponzi Vineyards on Monday, and boy! What a tasting. The wines were a perfect representation of the elegance and finesse that you can get from Oregon. I was particuarlly impressed with the Pinot Gris and their entry level Pinot Noir but the Reserve was a heavy hitter and a wine that will be fantastic in another 5-10 years….
2011 Ponzi Pinot Gris – A beautiful example of Pinot Gris from the Willamette Valley. I have been very impressed with the recent efforts of Pinot Gris from the North West and this is no exception. Lovely floral nose of lilacs and lilies with a fresh white peach note and a soft finish.
2008 Ponzi Reserve Chardonnay – This was a very typical Chardonnay with rich buttery notes and fresh lemon/lime citrus on the palate. I liked the crisp acidity that the wine displayed along with a lighter body that balanced out the buttery finish nicely.
2009 Ponzi Pinot Noir – A very pretty Pinot Noir that was light and agile on the palate and very expressive on the nose. The wine was drinking immediately out of the bottle with a great acidity and long finish. This is an exceptional value Pinot that is a good pop and pour for the patio.
2010 Ponzi Tavola Pinot Noir – A single vineyard attempt by Ponzi. The wine was good but lacking, a little heavier than the Willamette Pinot but lacking in complexity that both of the 09’s had.
2009 Ponzi Reserve Pinot Noir – This bottle was a great attempt by Ponzi, showing bold red fruits with a complex mineral finish. This is a blend of eight different vineyards which they feel brings the best of each vineyard together in a complex palate pleaser. I though the wine was excellent but in need of another 5+ years in the bottle before it starts to really show what it can do.