California Chardonnay wines from one of the most prestigious grape growers. The Balletto Chardonnay 2004 is made with grapes grown on the family’s original estate in California. It was aged in French oak barrels for 9 months and underwent 100% malolactic fermentation. This California Chardonnay has aromas of green apple, pineapple, sweet cream and vanilla from the toasted French oak barrels. THere is a hint of cinnamon. The flavors we find are crisp apple, vanilla, spice and hints of toasted oak and honeysuckle. This medium bodied wine has plenty of flesh that integrates with the lively acidity. This wine is nicely balanced and can be served at cellar temperature to handle rich cream or lobster dished, or served slightly chilled to pair with fruits, cheese or even spicy entrees. Only 615 cases were produced.

Balletto Vineyards is located in the Russian River Valley AVA. John Balletto owns 100 acres of Chardonnay, 60 acres of Pinot Noir, and 5 acres of Pinot Gris on his family’s 280 acre home estate. In addition to this property, Mr. Balletto owns 3 other vineyards in the Russian River Valley AVA. He sells most of these grapes to other wineries, but produces a small amount of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Zinfandel. Balletto handcrafted his first vintage in 2001. The winery opened a beautiful tasting room in early 2006. In addition to tasting Balletto’s wines at this facility, visitors can also sample vintages from Dutton Goldfield, another family-owned winery.

Balleto Chardonnay 2004 Information:
Harvest Dates: October 5 to October 19, 2004
Brix at harvest: 24.3
Grapes: Chardonnay Robert Young 4 and Dijon 95
Soils: Three different soil types on which Chardonnay grapes are grown. They are Wright Loam Shallow, Clear Lake Clay, and Blucher Fine Sandy Loam
Other Information: 9 months in 100% French oak barrels. 100% ML.
Total Cases Produced: 615 cases