Notre Vue
2022 Balverne Chardonnay – With Protected Land Being “Forever Wild”
The Winery
(Photo Balverne website)
Bob and Renee Stein purchased the 710-acre Russian River Valley estate that included a working vineyard in 1992. The Steins vision was to create a sustainable property which they developed by keeping 350 acres in a protected Forever Wild open space. This acreage weaved with the vineyards combines rugged wildland and wildlife with the manicured vineyards.
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
They accomplished their ideal view and called it Notre Vue (our view). Who would not enjoy viewing this idyllic setting every day? Can you imagine yourself sitting here?
(Photo Balverne website)
The resulting effort is 250 acres of rolling vineyards and the “Forever Wild” protected space. This includes 17 miles of hiking and biking trails with picnic areas throughout. Horseback riding trails also exist. Their label shows a red shoulder Hawk which roams the area. Their motto is the reason they consider Forever Wild to be the heart of the Notre Vue Estate.
Their goal with their winemaker Alex Hoffman is focused on making wine in a European style with finesse and low intervention. Their current offerings with the Balverne label include Zinfandel, Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, a few different Chardonnay’s, Malbec, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Under their Notre Vue label, they have various Rosés, Chardonnay’s, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and a few red blends.
The Wine – 2022 Balverne Chardonnay
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
The wine is a lighter straw golden color with medium viscosity on the eyes. On the nose fuji apple and light butterscotch aromas welcome the imbiber. On the palate, soft lemon custard and a unique marshmallow cream swirl about in the mouth. Secondary flavors of honeydew melon are also present. On the finish, an abrupt short finish but with a tinge of aforementioned lemon custard citrus leaving one with complete enjoyment.
The wine is 100% Russian River Valley and aged 8 months in 100% French oak, with 20% being new barrels and having 14.2% alcohol. Only 245 cases were produced and is scheduled is being released right now!
Their current release is listed at $35/bottle and is the 2021 vintage. 252 cases of the 2021 were produced and won Double Gold at the SF Chronicle Wine Competition.
The Food and Wine Pairing
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Paired this evening with a stir-fried chicken with Udon noodles with some fresh vegetables. The seasoning included soy sauce, onion, tomato powder, black pepper and rosemary. Vegetables included purple onions, broccoli and snap peas. This was a complete dish by itself. The complementary flavors of the Chardonnay harmonized with the savory Udon noodles, vegetables and spices. A very nice food and wine pairing this evening.
Sláinte,
Michael