Ponzi Vineyards 2013 Arneis, Willamette Valley, $30

Luisa Ponzi is the only Oregon winemaker to produce a wine featuring this variety from Italy’s Piedmont region. Her family became enchanted with the grape during vacations in Italy and visits with the Currado family of Vietti Winery. By 1991, the Ponzis began planting Arneis in their Aurora Vineyard, a sustainably farmed site built surrounding her parents’ home. It has grown to become one of Ponzi Vineyards most anticipated releases each spring, and it’s easy to see see why with aromas of white peach, fresh-picked Gala apple, gooseberry, elderflower, orange blossom, fresh-cut hay and lavender. The drink is fresh and bright with starfruit, gooseberry pie, peach and apple flavors, backed by citrusy acidity and even a bit of peach skin tannin. As usual, the wine presents itself bone dry at about 0.4% residual sugar. Six years ago, production of this wine was close to 700 cases and priced at $20 per bottle. Last year, it didn’t reach 400. Suggested pairings include Cucumber and Scallop Carpaccio with Cantaloupe, Vincotto and Crispy Coppa, Maple Chile-Glazed Salmon or ceviche.

Rating: Outstanding!

Production: 390 cases

Alcohol: 13.3%

Winery website

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