Ponzi Aurora Vineyard Chardonnay
2021, Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
Ponzi Aurora Vineyard Chardonnay
Chardonnay
Ponzi Vineyards
About the Wine
This vintage's yield was smaller than expected, but that only added to the intensity of color and structure of the wines. The Chardonnay grapes for this single vineyard cuvée were grown on Laurelwood soil at Ponzi’s LIVE Certified Sustainable Aurora Vineyard in the Laurelwood District AVA. These vines were planted in 1990. The grapes for this wine were sorted, and the whole cluster was pressed with no addition of sulfur. Fermented in 14% new French oak barrels, cool temperatures throughout the fermentation, and completed with wild yeast. 100% completion of malolactic fermentation with wild bacteria. Lees were stirred post-ML weekly for 11 months before a fall racking to neutral oak. This wine was in the barrel for a total of 16 months.
Tasting Notes
A captivating nose blends geranium, chamomile, and lime curd, accompanied by hints of pollen, honeycomb, and fresh straw. The mouth presents with a lithe acidity of mandarin and grapefruit pith, transitioning to a velvety mouth feel that reveals kumquats, poached pears, dried pineapple, biscoff, and lingering honeysuckle sweetness.
Pairing Recommendation
This elegant wine pairs wonderfully with seafood, roast chicken, pork with fruit sauces, creamy pasta dishes, soft cheeses, grilled vegetables, and light Asian cuisine, thanks to its crisp acidity and subtle fruit and oak flavors.