1994 Ponzi Pinot Noir Reserve

The 1992 Pinot Noir Reserve reveals more new oak than is generally found in Dick Ponzi's Pinots, but the wine's large, full-bodied style, high alcohol (13.8%), and layered, sweet, complex personality adequately support the wood. This full-bodied, backward, rich, flavorful Pinot Noir offers up gobs of smoked meats, jammy black-cherry and raspberry flavors, an exotic, Asian spice component, and layers of flavor. This terrific wine requires another 1-2 years of cellaring, although it is accessible. Expect it to age effortlessly for 10-15 years. Dick Ponzi remains the de facto leader of the quality wine movement in Oregon. In most vintages, his Pinot Noirs, if not the best, are among the top three or four wines of the vintage. In a great Pinot Noir vintage such as 1994, he has more competition, but as the my notes attest, he has made one of the top wines of the vintage. Tel. (503) 628-1227