Ponzi Vineyards Collection

2.5 linear feet

This collection contains newspaper and magazine articles highlighting the Ponzi Vineyards, photographs of the vineyards, invitations sent to and from the Ponzi’s, information about the Ponzi Vineyards published by the Ponzi Estate and outside publications, documents of correspondence, and miscellaneous materials that include mentioning of the Ponzi Vineyards and their wine.

Arranged in two series: Series 1. Photographs. Series 2. Documents.

Access is by appointment only. Please contact the archivist to make an appointment.

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• English

• Spanish

https://digitalcommons.linfield.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1013&context=lca_findingaids

Donated by Dick and Nancy Ponzi in November 2011.

Jereld R. Nicholson Library, Linfield University

Summary: This collection details the history of Ponzi Vineyards, founded by Dick and Nancy Ponzi. It includes information regarding events at the vineyard as well as the winery business. Included are articles showcasing the accolades given to the wine made at Ponzi Vineyards and the history of the work that the Ponzis have done to create their winery, as well as the contributions of other individuals.

Historical Note: Originally having nothing to do with viticulture or enology, the Ponzis were originally located in Southern California. After meeting Nancy, getting married, and having children, Dick Ponzi decided he wanted to revive his family tradition of home winemaking. The family focused on learning winemaking, working in California vineyards and studying at home, all the while raising their three young children. Then, after a number of years of learning, traveling, and researching, the Ponzis discovered Pinot Noir, and in 1969 set out along the West Coast to find a suitable location to begin
growing.
Eventually, they found the Willamette Valley: perfect for Pinot Noir and cheap enough to start up a new business. The original Estate Vineyard was established in 1970. By 1974, the Ponzis produced their first vintage. The Ponzis were also active in many other industries of the Willamette Valley. They opened one of Oregon’s first microbreweries in 1984, the Bridgeport Brewing Company. They later sold the brewery in 1995. In addition, the Ponzis also began their Dundee project in 1998 to commercialize and educate people on the wealth of agriculture and culinary prospects that the Willamette Valley ultimately had to offer. The Ponzis have a strong belief in the support of local foods and goods which led to the opening of The Dundee Bistro and Ponzi Wine Bar

Processed by archives technician Terran Sobel-Smith, with the assistance of archivist Rachael Cristine Woody.