Who makes it
Dick Ponzi moved his family from California to Oregon in 1969 and planted the vineyards. The first Pinot Noir barrels were made in 1974; 96 cases reached Portland in 1976.
Luisa Ponzi became the second winemaker in 1993 after studying viticulture and oenology in Beaune. In 2024, Max Bruening became the first winemaker from outside the family.
Where it grows
Ponzi has nearly 150 acres of vineyards across the Laurelwood District and Willamette Valley. The Laurelwood sites have windblown loess over volcanic basalt, with high elevations and persistent wind.
What they make
Ponzi makes Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir, alongside rosé, sparkling and dessert wines. The Willamette Valley Pinot Gris 2018 has bright acidity. The 2017 Pinot Gris was dry, with a little residual sweetness, fresh acidity and a full mouthfeel at 13 percent alcohol.