Classico Vineyards Series: Bieze
In the Willamette Valley, there’s a perfect spot for Pinot noir around every corner. Ponzi Vineyards is lucky to farm some of the best at our Avellana, Aurora and Madrona 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 and from our own vineyards, second-generation 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 our Bieze Vineyard for its aromatics.
The Bieze Family has owned their property outside of Salem, Oregon, for 35 years. Previously, it was planted with fir trees, a prune orchard, and a few walnut and holly trees. In 2008, the sloping hillsides were planted with a visually striking vineyard.
The soil foundation of the vineyard is formed by Ritner and Nekia soils. Volcanic formations laid down these soils, which vary somewhat in their composition. Nekia soil is a silty clay loam and is found on Bieze’s more steeply sloped areas. Ritner soil is a gravelly silty clay loam and is present on the more gently sloped areas. Both soil types are naturally well-drained, yet shallow, and the minerality of the site is well expressed in the fruit and wines produced there.
Located in the southern end of the Willamette Valley, Bieze benefits from cool breezes that flow across the site from the Van Duzer Corridor to the west. The sunny days with cool evening breezes create perfect conditions for developing fruit with full flavors and intriguing aromatics of chili pepper, chocolate and spice that make it an exceptional addition to the Ponzi Classico Pinot Noir blend.
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.