Ponzi Vineyards
Pinot Gris 2017
Willamette Valley
One of the original and most recognized Oregon and U.S. Pinot Gris producers, Ponzi was a major influence in establishing Pinot Gris as the first quality white grape variety in Oregon. Ponzi’s Pinot Gris is an irresistibly aromatic and expressive wine, and serves as a first encounter for many wine drinkers with Oregon wines and the Ponzi estate.
Vineyard
The 2017 Pinot Gris is produced from LIVE Certified Sustainable Ponzi Aurora, Avellana and Estate Vineyards, as well as select vineyards from around the Willamette Valley.
Winemaking
Fermented in temperature controlled, stainless-steel tanks, not exceeding 55˚F. Malolactic fermentation was prohibited to retain the bright and lively character of the wine. Stelvin closures (screwcaps) were used on 100% of the production.
Vintage
The 2017 vintage was a welcome throwback to more classic vintage years after the previous five warm years.
The winter was unusually cold and snowy. That extended into a cool spring, delaying bud break by a few weeks into April and bloom following suit in late June. The summer came dry and warm, for the most part, though we saw plenty of grey skies due to smoke from fires in the north and east. Fortunately, the Willamette Valley was spared any effect from the smoke and may have even benefited from some protection from sunburn in the hottest part of the summer.
Set was very large, so judicious fruit thinning was required to maintain quality and control volume. Harvest began in late September and long mild days ensued. Cool nights kept acids brilliant and bits of rain here and there ensured beautiful conditions for ripe, clean fruit with mature skin and seed tannin.
Reminiscent of recent vintages–2010 and 2011–this vintage will be one to enjoy immediately and for the long term.
Tasting Notes
“Complex aromatics of honeycomb and jasmine, daphne, lemongrass, white peppercorn and lime zest bound from the glass. The mouth follows with flavors of cara orange, kumquat and juicy pear. The acidity is brilliant and tamed with a touch of sweetness and a very slight phenolic tension in the finish.” – Winemaker, Luisa Ponzi
Food Pairing
A versatile wine that easily stands alone as an aperitif then pairs with Japanese, Chinese & Korean dishes as well as soft cheeses.
Color
White
Grape Varieties
Pinot Gris
Appellation
Willamette Valley
Alcohol
13.1%
Suggested Retail Price
$19.00
Reviews
"Suave floral quality"
Vinous - September 4, 2020
"Green-hued straw. Aromas of fresh peach, pear and orange, lifted by a spicy ginger flourish. Fleshy and dry on the palate, showing good clarity to the juicy citrus and orchard fruit flavors. Picks up a suave floral quality on the persistent finish, which leaves hints of fennel and chamomile behind."
"Fresh fruits, bright acidity"
Wine Advocate - April 23, 2020
"The 2017 Pinot Gris has lively scents of Bosc pears, apples, river stone and white blossoms with touches of baker's yeast. The palate is light-bodied with fresh fruits, bright acidity and a long, textured finish."
Reviews
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Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
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