The Laurelwood District AVA is a new addition to the Willamette Valley wine lexicon, established in 2020. It lies within the Chehalem Mountains AVA and is based on the loess soils that lie over basalt bedrock. Ponzi Vineyards lies within the Laurelwood District and their 2021 Pinot Noir shows the promise of the region. Pale ruby in color, the nose shows the beautiful purity of well-vinified Oregon Pinot Noir. Hints of cranberry, raspberry, red cherry and plum are enhanced by elements of lavender and fresh herbs. The flavors are juicy, pure and inviting with the red fruits underlain by lovely floral, herb and spice tones. The Ponzi family founded their winery in 1970 and have long been regarded as a top Pinot Noir producer. The winery was purchased by Groupe Bollinger of Champagne in 2021 but Luisa Ponzi remains the winemaker. The 2021 Pinot Noir heralds great things to come.
Ponzi Vineyards, Laurelwood District, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir 2021
By Wayne Belding