A 20-month barrel program of predominantly neutral French oak shows plenty of panache in the hands of second-generation winemaker Luisa Ponzi, who pays tribute to the 45th anniversary of her family’s winery in the north Willamette Valley. Six sites come into play, include sustainably farmed Avellina, Aurora and Paloma estate vineyards, organically farmed Thistle in the Dundee Hills along with the Bieze and Sunset View plantings in the cooler Eola-Amity Hills. There’s light toast in the nose, which is led by dried pineapple, Golden Delicious apple and lemon pie. More barrel influences emerge on the palate as Asian pear and nectarine flavors provide body and depth. Ample acidity comes in the finish of fresh-cut Gala apple. It is scheduled to be released in the Sherwood tasting room no earlier than August.
Rating: Excellent
Production: 700 cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
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