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Ponzi Vineyards

Laurelwood Pinot Noir 2023

Laurelwood District

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As one of the major wine publications once wrote, “All Oregon Pinot Noirs are measured against the Ponzi yardstick”. That has been true for over 50 years, while the Ponzi family has farmed 140 acres of certified sustainable vineyards all planted on Laurelwood soils. Taking on the mantle of pioneer spirit and innovation from their parents, sisters Maria and Luisa launched a decade-long pursuit, alongside neighboring growers, which has resulted in the recognition of Oregon’s first soil-based AVA, the Laurelwood District. Situated along the Northern ridge of the Willamette Valley, a long contiguous stretch of ancient fractured basalts are layered over with a fine, windblown sediment called loess. During their tenure on this unique land, the Ponzis have observed the unique characteristics as their vines penetrated the earth and evolved. Bright red fruit character in their youth gives way to dark berry and brambly spice as the vines reach into the volcanic layers. The character of this soil has defined the Ponzis’ wines and served as a guide for generations of winemakers in the Willamette Valley.

VINEYARD

This Pinot Noir is a selection of fruit from the Laurelwood District AVA, predominately made up of estate vineyards Avellana, Aurora, and Linda Vista. Along with selections from trusted growers at Gemini and Chehalem Crossing Vineyard, all LIVE Certified Sustainable and grown in Laurelwood soil.

WINEMAKING

Fermented in small lots with daily punch-downs followed by aging 10 months in French oak (30% new).

VINTAGE

A warm, even 2023 growing season in the Laurelwood District delivered small berries with concentrated flavor and refined tannin structure. Moderate daytime heat preserved freshness while cool evenings maintained aromatic lift. The resulting Pinot Noir shows precise red fruit, layered spice and fine, polished tannins, balancing vibrancy with depth and age-worthy structure.

TASTING NOTE

A complex nose of honeysuckle, mandarin, white peach, mango, lemongrass and ginger leads into a full palate, reminiscent of a light meringue and shortbread, all framed by a lively acidity and fresh finish.

Color

Red

Blend %

100% Pinot Noir

Appellation

Laurelwood District

Certifications

SUSTAINABLE

Farming

LIVE Certified Sustainable

Alcohol

13.3%

Suggested Retail Price

$48

Reviews

94

James Suckling - March 11, 2025 "Deep, dark fruit and moody, spicy, savory accents on a bold, fine-grained tannic texture backed by great acidity. It is structured, concentrated, layered and intense. It becomes broader and richer with each sip and lingers in the finish, echoing black cherries and star anise."

93

Wine Advocate - November 6, 2025 "Matured for 10 months in 30% new French oak, the 2023 Pinot Noir Laurelwood District has nuanced aromas of red and black cherries, licorice, saline, holiday spice and earth. The medium-bodied palate boasts expansive, fragrant flavors. It has an elegant frame of velvety tannins and bright acidity and a long finish with a flourish of spicy accents."

92

Wine Spectator - October 13, 2025 "Vibrant and fresh, with lively flavors of pomegranate and cherry accented with green tea tones that speed toward snappy tannins."

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Ponzi Vineyards Laurelwood Pinot Noir

Ponzi Vineyards Laurelwood Pinot Noir 2023 Label

Ponzi Vineyards Laurelwood Pinot Noir Bottle Shot

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