"In the end, 2009 made some spectacular wines, but reflecting back, the most dominant impression is how schizophrenic it was! There was no clear understanding of whether it was a cool vintage or a warm vintage until all was said and done. After a colder-than-normal winter, the region started off with a late budbreak. As the winery headed into the summer, the temperatures were quite moderate, leading Ponzi to believe it was in for a late, cool year. Then, July and August brought extreme heat spikes, desiccating fruit, rushing ripeness along and catching the winery's attention. Harvest began in late September with some very ripe, young vineyards and white varietals. October cooled down again, and Ponzi had the luxury of leaving the majority of the fruit to gain flavor without accumulating sugar, while the cool nights kept acidity in check. 2009 proved to be very similar to the 2002 or 2006 vintage." - Winery Notes

Ponzi Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2009 Reviews

"Bright ruby. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of black raspberry, rose and spicecake, with a smoky nuance that builds with air. Juicy red and dark berry flavors are nicely concentrated and supported by a spine of gentle acidity. The smoky note repeats on the sweet, dark berry-dominated finish. This will be drinkable soon and already shows well with decanting." - 90, International Wine Cellar

Ponzi Pinot Noir Willamette Valley 2009 Tasting Notes

"Spiced cherry, cinnamon, clove and graham cracker aromatics lead to a soft entry of licorice and peppercorn notes. The mid palate sweetness finishes with dusty firm tannins." - Winemaker Notes