I like Balletto wines. I like that they are easily accessible in every sense of the word. They’re available at most local shops; they’re affordable; and they’re (most importantly) fun and easy wines to drink. I’ve yet to be disappointed by anything by Balletto — and they have the added perk of still being a family-run business who sources their grapes from their own estate vineyards. So of course after enjoying their classic Pinot Noir and Chardonnay offerings, I was most eager to give their sparkling brut rosé a go in conjunction with my holiday sparkling wine series. 
About the Wine: The Balletto Vineyards 2013 Sparkling Brut Rosé is made from 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay grapes harvested from the Balletto estate vineyards located in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma, California. The grapes were lightly, whole-cluster pressed. The Pinot Noir went through primary fermentation in stainless steel; the Chardonnay went through primary fermentation in seasoned French oak barrels, completing 100% malolactic fermentation.
The combined still wines went through secondary fermentation in bottle, according to the methode traditionelle or methode champenoise, aging in bottle for three years sur lies. (Read more about the traditional Champagne method: Pop the Cork on Sparkling Wine.)
12.9% ABV
Flavor Profile: Pop the cork and breathe in the cloud of salty seaside air, fresh citrus fruits, and sharp acidity. The Balletto Vineyards 2013 Sparkling Brut Rosé isn’t a pink wine, but more of a golden-hued peach-shade of pink. Initial aromas are of citrus — lime zest and lemon pith — hints of strawberries, and just a bit of dusty, funky country air. Swirl, and reveal that initial salinity sensed from the bottle — this is no country, this is beach-side paradise.
The palate of this sparkling wine is enjoyably dry. Dominant flavors are of strawberries, lemon-lime juice and zest, and pastry-based bread. The finish ends with on a bit of a sour note, that slowly disintegrates, leaving an all-together clean mouthfeel.
More Info: I received the Balletto Vineyards 2013 Sparkling Brut Rosé as a sample for review. (Cheers Megan!) Retail: $42. For more information about Balletto Vineyards, there wines, and to purchase wine directly, please visit the Balletto Vineyards website.
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I stopped at Balletto on my way to the airport after WBC. I picked up a couple of bottles!