Ponzi 2021 Laurelwood Pinot Noir

Ponzi (est. 1970) is one of a handful of wineries that launched the modern era of winemaking in the Willamette Valley. Although second gen winemaker Luisa Ponzi is still in charge of production, the winery has been sold to the Bollinger Champagne group. Yes, another French incursion into Oregon (and a welcome one). The newest Ponzi releases feature striking label designs and slightly higher prices but deliver the same overall exceptional quality. This is not cheap, yet relatively inexpensive given that the Ponzi single vineyard Pinots cost over $100 a bottle. The Laurelwood is sourced from those same vineyards and blended from the same pampered barrels. It offers mixed red fruits, satiny tannins, boisterous acids and a balanced and clean finish. If you love Pinot Noir made with taste and elegance, this is a fine choice. 5862 cases; 13.4%; $49 (Laurelwood District) 92/100