Ponzi Vineyards - Willamette Valley - Pinot Gris 2016

Wine

Floral aromas of honeysuckle, gardenia, cotton candy and lemon chiffon lead to complex notes of honeycomb, fresh cut herbs and anise. The textured palate shows honeydew melon, white peach and meringue with bright fresh acidity balanced by a touch of sweetness.

Estate

In the late 1960s Dick and Nancy Ponzi uprooted their family to pursue a dream of producing world class Pinot Noir. After research trips to Burgundy and an extensive search, they purchased 20 acres on a small farm just southwest of Portland, Oregon. The winery was founded in 1970, and the first 4 barrels of wine produced in 1974. Ponzi has since become internationally acclaimed for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. For the last 25 years President Maria Ponzi and Winemaker Luisa Ponzi have brought the estate to even greater heights, setting the standard for Oregon and remaining at the forefront of the nation's top wine producers.

Vineyard

The 2016 Pinot Gris is produced from LIVE Certified Sustainable Ponzi Aurora, Avellana and Estate Vineyards, as well as select vineyards from around the Willamette Valley.

Vinification

Fermented in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks, not exceeding 55 Farenheit. 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

2016 jumped out of the gate with bud break a full 3 weeks earlier than what the winery is accustomed to. Flowering was condensed by a heat spell and an early summer provided beautiful warm temperatures until August when it heated up. Harvest arrived later that month and was in full swing by early September. All fruit was in the door by the first part of October. Fruit quality was immaculate with absolutely no disease pressure. Fruit set was small due to the short flowering time. Berry size was also small resulting in lower yields and gorgeously intense fruit.

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