Ponzi Pinot Noir 2009

Its amazing to consider but 2009 is Ponzi's 39th Pinot Noir vintage! Richard and Nancy Ponzi moved to the Willamette Valley in the 1960's and bought a 20 acre farm, planting and pioneering Pinot Noir in the region, they opened the doors to Ponzi Vineyards in 1970. Today the family owned estated is 120 acres and additional contracts with some of the top growers in the area Ponzi has become known as a leader in Oregon viticulture, committed to sustainable farming, and one of the best domestic producers of Pinot Noir in America.

2009 was an interesting vintage in the Willamette. A very cold winter led to a late bud break causing wineries to believe they were heading towards a late harvest and low yields, but then extreme heat spikes in July and August crossed up many vintners. In September many younger vineyards were almost over ripe and ready to pick while mature vineyards such as Ponzi did not have the sugar levels to harvest. A moderate October allowed Ponzi to keep the grapes hanging until ready and the results were terrific! The Pinot Noir 2009 is soft, supple with dusty tannins and bright cherry notes on the palate and spice box aromatics.