($20, Henriot, Inc): Fleurie, similar to the other nine named villages or cru of the Beaujolais region, carries its own appellation.  Indeed, there’s no reference to Beaujolais on Villa Ponciago’s label.  And that’s probably just as well because this wine is as far away from the typical, slightly pejorative, image of Beaujolais.  Characteristic of the appellation, the 2009 Villa Ponciago has an immediately alluring floral aspect, followed by richness and depth characteristic of the vintage.  Its glossy texture and vinous, not grapey, signature makes it an extremely engaging wine.
91 Michael Apstein Dec 30, 2014