Santa Rosa-based Balletto has a heavy focus on chardonnay, producing five varieties designed to reflect the distinct characteristics of individual vineyards it utilizes. This expression, Twin Ridges, includes grapes from two vineyards in the Sonoma Coast region, just 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean.

While the nose of the wine offers a classic (if restrained) butter, vanilla, and oak profile, it explodes with hidden charms once you tuck into the wine itself. Boldly fruity with initial notes of lemon custard and lychee, it’s a veritable fruit salad with citrus and apple notes all mixed together. Ample grapefruit notes give the finish a certain brightness, though it’s filtered through a somewhat buttery, lightly savory lens.

Very drinkable, especially with food.

A / $42 / ballettovineyards.com

2016 Balletto Chardonnay Twin Ridges

$42

9.5

Rating

9.5/10

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Christopher Null

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