First, I should state that I have had the honor of tasting several great champagnes and sparkling wines in all price ranges. I've had them with bubbles so small and delicate they teased my tongue and floated down the back of my throat on fairy wings, and flavors so concentrated and full bodied it seemed as if I had a mouth full of effervescent liquid silk. Don't get me wrong, I'm not a wine snob on any level(I can't afford to be!). In fact, some of the stunners I've sampled have cost $10.00 a bottle or less! But, if you've had somewhat extensive experience with this style of wine, you are going to be very puzzled by all the 4 and 5 star reviews here. I do not wish to offend, but Ballatore ain't no 5 star sparkling wine!
Upon opening the bottle, I got a big whiff of candy apples.
There was a bit of citrus, but it was a sweet citrus as opposed to refreshing or crisp. The color was a pale gold.
The thing that put me off most was the bubbles. They're huge! It made my eyes water to swallow the stuff! To me, this was similar in effervescence to ginger ale or club soda; not quite as bubbly as soda pop, but nowhere near as finessed as a good champagne/sparkling wine. As for the flavor, the first sensation is sweet. Period. After several seconds, there is a hint of apple or pear, but that's it. "Easy drinking" is the understatement of the millennium in this case! Such an ambivalent little drink. It does not please, nor does it offend. BUT, that doesn't mean that Ballatore does not have it's uses...
A few months ago, I planned what was, at the time, a small get together for brunch. Well, things got a bit out of hand and I ended up with 16 (instead of 6) guests. I had initially wanted to serve Blood Orange Mimosas made with Piper Heidsieck NV Extra Dry because I got a great deal on a half case (and it's a great off dry champagne!), but even at a bargain price, I couldn't afford Piper for 16!
Enter Ballatore. All I had to do was squeeze the blood oranges, pour about 1/4 c of the juice into the glass and add Ballatore. They were perfect! No need to add sugar, or Grand Marnier. Every single person at the brunch asked for the recipe (if you can call something so simple a "recipe"!). I've also made excellent Poire William champagne cocktails and a wonderful champagne punch with fresh peaches using Ballatore (still, the Blood Orange Mimosas were my favorite).
Would I recommend Ballatore? Yes, but only if it's in a supporting role and not the star!:)
Recommended:
Yes
Year: Non-Vintage
Winery Name: E&J Gallo
Varietal: Sparkling Wine
Country: USA
State or Region: California
Price: $5-$6.00
Wine Rating Scale: Drinkable
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