Classico Vineyards Series: Sufi
The Willamette Valley has become synonymous with world-class Pinot noir, with a perfect spot for the varietal seemingly around every corner. Ponzi Vineyards farms some of the best at our Avellana, Aurora and Madrona sites, which form the foundation of our signature Classico Pinot Noir. To enhance the blend and showcase 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 the 2015 Classico blend, she selected Sufi Vineyard for its aromatics.
Named after the ancient culture of Persian monks, who relinquished their material possessions in the pursuit of divinity, Sufi was planted in 2009, making it one of the younger vineyards in the Classico blend. Located on Bald Peak in the Willamette Valley’s Chehalem Mountains, this is a high-elevation site resting between 600-800 feet. On a clear day, it has gorgeous panoramic views of Portland, Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams and Mt. St. Helens. It is LIVE certified and Salmon Safe.
The soil type at Sufi is Laurelwood, a fertile loess formed by windblown silt during the last Ice Age. Laurelwood soil famously lends spicy and bright fruit flavors when vines are young, and earthy, blue fruit flavors when the vines get older and the roots tap into the basalt layer underneath. They grow the Pommard clone of Pinot noir; combined with the elevation, cooler days and nights, and the Laurelwood soil, the result is a fruit that is spicy and dark, with loads of pepper on the nose, which it lends to our Classico 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.