Ponzi Vineyards was founded by Dick and Nancy Ponzi in 1970. They, along with other iconic Oregon wineries like Eyrie, Adelsheim and Sokol Blosser, paved the way for what is now one of the most exciting Pinot Noir regions in the world. Ponzi produces a number of wines including Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, but it is the Reserve Pinot Noir that receives the most acclaim.
The 2003 vintage in Oregon’s Willamette valley was difficult to say the least. The weather was unusually hot – not ideal for producing world class Pinot Noir. Ponzi beat the odds.
The wine is dark garnet in color. The nose is rich with smells of clove, ripe black fruits and white pepper. Super spicy with earth, cherries, plums, rhubarb and cola. There is just a touch of heat on the finish but it is just a minor distraction and has definitely subsided with bottle age. A wonderful example of a winery excelling in a tough vintage.
The current vintage of Ponzi Reserve runs $60 and can be purchased directly from the winery or through your favorite local wine shop.
My rating: 92 points
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