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Learn MoreCrafted from the celebrated Laurelwood soil of the Chehalem Mountains in Oregon's Willamette Valley, Ponzi Pinot Noir Laurelwood District is a pinnacle of sustainable winemaking excellence. This 100% Pinot Noir offers layers of complexity, starting with a bouquet of raspberry jam, chili pepper, and flinty notes, evolving into hints of rose petals and magnolia. On the palate, it is a harmonious blend of bright red fruit, dark tannins, and spice accents like star anise and juniper, culminating in a rich, lasting finish. Aged for 10 months in 30% new French oak and 12 months in the bottle, this wine embodies the unique terroir of volcanic basalt and windblown loess, creating an elegant minerality. Perfect with dishes like seared duck breast or porcini mushroom risotto, this LIVE Certified Sustainable wine encapsulates Ponzi's legacy of innovation and the unparalleled character of the Laurelwood District.
Process & Profile
Ponzi Vineyards has set the standard for Oregon Pinot Noir for over 50 years. The Ponzi Pinot Noir from the Laurelwood District is crafted to reflect the unique terroir of the Chehalem Mountains in the Willamette Valley. Grown on volcanic basalt soils with a surface layer of loess, this wine is a blend of sustainably farmed grapes from several high-elevation and live-certified vineyards. Following careful hand-harvesting, the wine ferments in small lots with daily punch-downs to extract its nuanced flavors. It then matures for 14 months in French oak (37% new) and spends an additional 12 months in the bottle, enhancing its complexity and balance. The result is a wine with moderate alcohol (13.8%) and a velvety texture.Tasting Notes
On the nose, this Pinot Noir offers a medley of spiced black cherry, blackberry reduction, and cinnamon, with intriguing layers of white pepper, lavender, and bergamot. Upon tasting, the wine delights with a silky texture, unveiling flavors of honeyed juniper, sage, and cedar. Its finish lingers with notes of graphite and dark chocolate, supported by fine, chalky tannins. The vibrant acidity ensures a well-balanced and elegant experience that evolves with every sip.What Makes It Special
What sets Ponzi Pinot Noir Laurelwood District apart is its profound expression of terroir. The Laurelwood District is the first soil-based AVA in Oregon and exemplifies the marriage of sustainable viticulture and meticulous winemaking. The volcanic basalt and loess soils impart an inherent balance and measured intensity to the grapes, creating wines that combine bright red fruit from younger vines with darker, spiced tones from older vines. This harmony of flavors is a hallmark of Ponzi Vineyards' dedication to showcasing the depth of Oregon's wine heritage. Additionally, the wine's limited production and acclaim as a benchmark for Oregon Pinot Noir add to its exclusivity.How to Enjoy
Ponzi Pinot Noir Laurelwood District shines when served slightly chilled, around 55–60°F, to enhance its aromas and flavors. It pairs beautifully with elegant dishes such as seared duck breast with cranberry coulis, creamy porcini mushroom risotto, or a beet and lentil salad with tarragon vinaigrette. For casual pairings, try it with roasted salmon, soft cheeses, or even mushroom-based vegetarian dishes. Decanting for about 30 minutes is recommended to fully open its bouquet and showcase its layered complexity. Whether poured at a sophisticated dinner or enjoyed leisurely with friends, this Pinot Noir promises a memorable tasting experience.Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ponzi Pinot Noir from the Laurelwood District unique?
Ponzi Pinot Noir in the Laurelwood District AVA is crafted from vines grown in distinctive Laurelwood soils, a combination of windblown loess over ancient basalt bedrock. This soil contributes to the wine's signature complexity, with flavors of red and dark fruits, spice like white pepper and anise, and brambly tannins.
Where is the Laurelwood District AVA located?
The Laurelwood District AVA is in the northern edge of Oregon's Willamette Valley, within the Chehalem Mountains AVA. It was established in 2020 and is known for its unique soil composition and cool climate, making it ideal for producing elegant Pinot Noir wines.
What is the taste profile of Ponzi Pinot Noir?
Ponzi Pinot Noir typically exhibits flavors of cherry, raspberry, and cola, with subtle spice notes like cardamom or white pepper. It has a medium to light body, high acidity, and silky tannins, creating a wine of elegance and finesse.
Is Ponzi Pinot Noir sustainable and environmentally friendly?
Yes, Ponzi Vineyards employs sustainable farming practices and is LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) Certified Sustainable. This certification ensures high standards of environmental stewardship in viticulture and winemaking.
How should I serve Ponzi Pinot Noir?
For optimal enjoyment, serve Ponzi Pinot Noir slightly below room temperature, around 55–60°F. This can be achieved by refrigerating the bottle for 15–30 minutes before serving. Let the wine breathe for a few minutes after opening to enhance its aroma and flavors.
What foods pair well with Ponzi Pinot Noir?
Ponzi Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including roasted poultry, pork tenderloin, grilled salmon, mushroom risotto, and creamy cheeses. Its bright acidity and gentle tannins complement both earthy and savory flavors.
How does the elevation of the vineyards influence the wine?
The elevation of Ponzi Vineyards in the Laurelwood District ranges from 300 to 900 feet. Lower elevations, with deeper loess, produce wines with red fruit flavors, while higher elevations, where basalt dominates, yield darker, richer fruit profiles and structure.
What is the alcohol content of Ponzi Pinot Noir?
The alcohol content of Ponzi Pinot Noir typically falls within the range of 12–14%, reflecting the cool climate of the Willamette Valley, which allows for balanced ripening and moderate alcohol levels.
How does Pinot Noir differ from other red wines?
Pinot Noir tends to be lighter in color and body, with lower tannins and higher acidity compared to varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. It is prized for its elegant and nuanced flavors of red fruits, earthiness, and spice, as well as its ability to express the unique terroir where it is grown.
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