Gewürztraminer wine from one of California's best grape grower. Balletto Estate Gewurztraminer 2006 has aromas of lychee nut, spice, orange peel, mango and coconut. It has crisp, lively acidity with flavors of orange-lime and tangerine-mango. As grape growers first, Balletto Estate strongly feels that with good grapes comes good wine. It all starts in the field, with the Gewurztraminer grapes. Their prime vineyards in Sonoma's Russian River Valley have provided the grapes to produce this excellent Gewurztraminer wine. It is talked about as one of Sonoma County's Russian River Valley's best.

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.

RATINGS: 90 Points - Ken's Wine Guide
"As many readers know, I am passionate about Gewurz! I discovered this one on a recent trip to California. I have to say this is one of the best Gewurztraminers I have had in quite some time. This pale yellow wine opens with the traditional varietal bouquet of brilliant lychee aromas. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, nicely balanced, with wonderfully integrated acidity. The flavor profile is light apricot and spice. The finish is dry, tingly, and refreshing. This wine would be a perfect match for many Asian dishes, but I personally would pair it with chicken lo mein or pull it out for Thanksgiving dinner. Enjoy – Ken"

BRONZE Medal - San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2008

BRONZE Medal - 2008 Tasters Guild Wine Lovers' Competition Judging

Balleto Gewurztraminer 2006 Information:
Harvest Date: September 29, 2006
Brix at Harvest: 23.0 to 25.2
Soil: Huichica Loam
Other Information: Grapes are picked and sorted by hand. This vintage wine was aged in 100% neutral French oak barrels.
Total cases handcrafted: 793
This wine begins with aromas of lychee nut, spice, orange peel, mango and coconut. It has crisp, lively acidity with flavors of orange-lime and tangerine-mango. This Estate Gewurztraminer pairs well with spicy Thai foods or as a an aperitif.