Ponzi Recipe

Combine wines

In a clean mixing vessel (pitcher or bowl), pour 2 cups Pinot Noir, 1 cup Chardonnay and 1/2 cup Riesling. Stir gently to integrate the three wines until homogenuous, about 10–15 seconds.

Taste and adjust

Taste the blended wine to evaluate body and acidity. The Pinot Noir provides structure and red-fruit character, Chardonnay adds weight and texture, Riesling gives aromatic lift and bright acidity. Adjust proportions slightly if needed (not more than 1/4 cup at a time) to suit your preferred balance.

Fortify and sweeten

Add 1/4 cup neutral grape brandy to the blended wine to lift aromatics and slightly increase alcohol — this echoes fortified aperitif styles. Stir to combine. Dissolve 1 tablespoon demerara sugar into the mixture, stirring until fully dissolved (about 20–30 seconds). If you prefer less sweetness, start with 1 teaspoon and add to taste.

Allow the fortified blend to rest for 5 minutes so flavors marry and sugar fully integrates.

Infuse aromatics

Add 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon zest, 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves, and a pinch of cracked black pepper to the fortified wine. If using orange blossom water, add one small drop (be cautious; it's potent). Stir gently to combine.

Brief steep

Let the aromatics steep in the mixture for 5–10 minutes at room temperature. This will impart citrus, herbal and subtle floral notes reminiscent of Willamette terroir. Taste after 5 minutes and remove solids (strain) if the herbal note becomes too strong.

Chill and serve

Fill a rocks glass with ice (about 1 cup). Strain the blended, fortified and aromatized wine over the ice into the glass. Garnish with a lemon wheel or a small sprig of thyme placed on top.

Serve immediately as an aperitif. Estimated single serving yields approximately 12 ounces (adjust servings below). Store any leftover mixture refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 48 hours; re-stir and taste before serving again.