A TASTE OF OREGON’S FINEST WINES: PONZI VINEYARDS
By Linda Kissam
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: A conversation with Linda Kissam and Max Bruening, winemaker at Ponzi Vineyards. Watch the podcast here in the YouTube player or download it on Podbean. Plus, check out the Spring Nettle Pesto Recipe from Chef Nathan Jones.
In the rolling hills of Oregon’s revered Willamette Valley, Ponzi Vineyards continues to captivate wine enthusiasts with its dedication to crafting exceptional wines that truly reflect the essence of the terroir.
With a legacy of winemaking excellence that spans over four decades, Ponzi Vineyards has established itself as a pioneer in the region, consistently producing wines of outstanding quality and distinction.
In this comprehensive review, I delve into three standout offerings from Ponzi Vineyards: the vibrant 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Chardonnay, the elegant 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Pinot Noir, and the exquisite 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve. Join me on a memorable sensory journey as we explore the unique characteristics and unparalleled craftsmanship behind these remarkable wines.
The 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Chardonnay is a beautifully balanced wine with vibrant acidity and flavors of ripe tropical fruits, citrus, and a hint of vanilla. It has a smooth, creamy texture with a refreshing finish, making it an excellent choice for Chardonnay lovers. $30.00
Pair this Chardonnay with a creamy lobster bisque. The rich and buttery flavors of the bisque complement the oakiness of the wine, while the delicate sweetness of the lobster enhances the fruity notes of the Chardonnay. This pairing creates a luxe and indulgent dining experience.
The 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Pinot Noir is a rich-style Pinot. It is elegant and expressive with bright red fruit flavors, subtle hints of spice, and a silky smooth texture. It has a lovely balance of acidity and tannins, along with a lingering finish that leaves a lasting impression on the palate. This Pinot Noir showcases the quality and craftsmanship that the Ponzi winery is known for, making it a standout choice for any wine enthusiast. $40.00
To complement the complexity and versatility of the Ponzi Laurelwood Pinot Noir, pair it with roasted duck breast with a cherry-port reduction. The fruity notes in the wine harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the cherry-port sauce, while the tender and flavorful duck meat complements the earthy undertones of the Pinot Noir. This pairing creates a sophisticated and memorable dining experience that highlights the best qualities of both the wine and the dish.
The 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve is a standout among today’s Pinot’s. Luxurious and refined, it embodies the essence of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. It boasts a complex bouquet of dark cherry, raspberry, and violet aromas, with hints of spice and earthiness. On the palate, this Reserve Pinot Noir offers layers of flavors, including ripe berries, dark chocolate, and subtle oak notes. Its velvety texture, fine tannins, and long, elegant finish make it a truly exceptional wine that showcases the utmost quality and craftsmanship. $70.00 (Worth every cent!)
To pair with the 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve, a delightful dessert option would be a classic flourless chocolate cake. The rich and decadent flavors of the cake harmonize perfectly with the dark fruit and chocolate notes in the wine, creating a decadent and indulgent pairing experience. The wine’s smooth texture and complex flavors complement the dense and fudgy cake, resulting in a luxurious finish.
Wondering which Pinot might be best for you? The 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Pinot Noir and the 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve showcase distinct characteristics that set them apart in terms of flavor profile, aging potential, and overall complexity.
The 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Pinot Noir is a more recent vintage, known for its fruit-forwardness and approachability. This wine typically displays bright red fruit flavors, such as cherry and raspberry, with a touch of spice and floral notes. It is meant to be enjoyed in its youth, offering a lively and expressive drinking experience.
On the other hand, the 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve represents a higher tier of quality and sophistication. This wine has been aged for a longer period, allowing it to develop greater depth, complexity, and structure. The Reserve often showcases a richer palate with layers of dark fruit, earthy undertones, and velvety tannins. It is a wine that benefits from some aging and can continue to evolve and improve with time in the bottle.
It is evident that the 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Chardonnay, 2021 Ponzi Laurelwood Pinot Noir, and 2019 Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve exemplify the winemaking artistry and the distinctive terroir of the Willamette Valley. Each sip tells a story of dedication, expertise, and passion. Whether you prefer the crisp elegance of the Chardonnay, the refined complexity of the Pinot Noir, or the luxurious depth of the Reserve, these wines stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ponzi Vineyards and their commitment to producing wines of unparalleled quality.
Raise your glass to the beauty of Oregon’s wine country and savor the taste of excellence embodied in every pour from Ponzi Vineyards. Cheers to a journey of discovery and delight in each bottle crafted with care and precision.
Visit https://www.ponzivineyards.com/
Linda Kissam ‘Food, Wine & Shopping Diva’ is a professional travel, food, and wine writer based out of Southern California, who specializes in easy, breezy destination stories sharing her favorite things about the places she visits. Visit www.AllInGoodTaste.info.
