Ponzi Vineyards 2016 Pinot Noir Reserve, Willamette Valley, $65

Second-generation winemaker Luisa Ponzi compares the 2016 vintage to that of 2006, a vintage that Wine Spectator graded as a B+ and praised for its early approachability. This is a blend primarily from the family’s prized Aurora, Abetina and Avellana plantings, along with nearby Linda Lista Vineyard, a Salmon-Safe site just outside of the Chehalem Mountains. There’s more investment in French oak (30% new) over 20 months, reflected in the whiff of cola and chocolate behind the enticing aromas of strawberry, raspberry, talcum and lime zest. On the palate, it’s reminiscent of plum and chocolate-covered pomegranate, reflecting a riper cool-climate approach that didn’t undergo filtration and bodes well for cellaring.

Rating: Excellent

Production: 2,350 cases

Alcohol: 14.4%

Winery website

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