Balverne, Russian River Valley (Sonoma County, California) Chardonnay 2021

 I will admit it — I’m a real snob when it comes to Chardonnay.  I can be a solid NO on the nose alone, and I’m not a fan of corny notes, overt oak spice or bitterness, which for some reason stand out to me.  All of which makes me glad to find this wine from Balverne.  There is none of that unpleasantness here, just rich, dry purity of character, a supple texture and a little grip that keeps those pleasant flavors lingering.  I continue to appreciate winemaker Alex Holman’s style.