2021 Balletto Vineyards “Teresa’s Unoaked” CHARDONNAY, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California
100% Pinot Gris 13.0% ABV
The Rose family is among the pioneers of Wairau (“Why-Row“) River. They originally sold their grapes to other wineries, until establishing the winery in 1991. Planted in 1978, the Rose’s Home Block Vineyard is the source of fruit for this Pinot Gris. The vineyard is on the banks of Wairau River, in the northern part of Marlborough, with gravely riverbed soil. These old vines help explain the depth and purity of flavor. The attack is ripe, rich and tangy, similar to Alsace. Green apple, pear, dried honey, touch of chalky minerality on finish. Aged in stainless steel.
Lizette’s Food Pairing Suggestions:
Enjoy this this rich, fruit-forward white with chicken tagine over apricot couscous; grilled pork chops with Bernaise sauce and blue cheese souffle; Spring pea and asparagus gnocchi with pesto cream sauce; stir fried salmon with ginger and sesame soy sauce over white rice; spicy mussel chowder; seafood linguine in a delicate broth; sashimi with fresh basil chiffonade; quiche Lorraine; butter chicken and other spicy Indian cuisine; fresh sushi rolls; and eggplant Parmesan served with a tomato and mozzarella salad seasoned with fresh basil and a balsamic reduction. This food friendly white is also the perfect partner for classic cheeses like Muenster and Edam or more exotic selections like Garroxta and Caprino Tartufo.