Classico Vineyards Series: Alloro
The Willamette Valley is perfectly suited in every way for Pinot noir. There is an abundance of beautiful growing sites. Ponzi Vineyards is lucky to farm some of the best at our Avellana, Aurora and Paloma vineyards. These sites are the foundation of our signature wine, the Classico Pinot Noir. To complete the blend and truly highlight what this region can produce, we work with area growers to source the finest fruit from exceptional vineyards. When sourcing from these growers, Winemaker Luisa Ponzi looks for fruit that contributes the desired aromatics, structure or fruit intensity to complement her vision for the vintage. For our 2015 Classico blend, she selected Alloro Vineyard for its remarkable fruit intensity.
Originally planted in 1999, this 34-acre vineyard sweeps across a west-to-east southern aspect on Laurel Ridge in the Chehalem Mountains AVA in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. At 450-700 feet of elevation, the Laurelwood soil--a deep, wind-blown loess topsoil over decomposed basalt--creates optimal conditions for sustainable dry farming at this LIVE certified site.
Alloro’s growers have a philosophy of seeking “purity of flavor” in their grapes, meaning all of their growing practices are designed to draw out the site’s true personality. Beginning early in the growing season, they predict the year’s weather patterns and plan for canopy and crop-load management techniques that will encourage proper development.
The abundance of older vines and lots of sun in the afternoon make for the dark, lush fruit flavors in our Classico blend.
“As a grower, we have enjoyed working with the Ponzi Family and the Ponzi Vineyards team for over 15 years," says David Nemarnik of Alloro Vineyars. "Luisa makes us feel like family! The quality of Ponzi’s Classico Pinot noir shows the passion and attention to detail that goes into crafting such well-made Oregon wine!”
Get a bottle of Classico Pinot Noir for yourself. The dusty tannins, hints of roasted coffee and mouthwatering acidity are balanced by almond sweetness. Pairs beautifully with food.
About the Classico Series
Our Classico Pinot Noir is blended from 100% Pinot noir sourced from the exceptional sites throughout the Willamette Valley with Ponzi’s most established vineyards at its base. The result is a classic New World expression of Oregon Pinot noir with nuances and flavors that are a hallmarks of the region’s varied soils and cool climate. Follow along as we explore some of the vineyards chosen by Winemaker Luisa Ponzi as the truest expressions of the vintage.