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Franck Balthazar is best known for his esteemed Cornas domaine, but his Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge offers a glimpse of that same gentle, traditional touch at a far more accessible level. The fruit comes from sites just south of Cornas, where Syrah grows on a mix of granite and clay-limestone soils. Farming is organic and the winemaking follows his top cuvées, focusing on whole-cluster fermentation, native yeasts and aging in old barrels to keep the wine fresh and unadorned.
The 2023 is vibrant and lifted, showing blackberry, dark cherry and a touch of pepper, along with subtle floral notes that feel true to northern Rhône Syrah. The palate is smooth and energetic, with fine tannins and a clean, savory finish. It’s an honest, beautifully made Côtes-du-Rhône that delivers real character and an easy sense of drinkability.
Varietal: Syrah, Grenache
Appellation: Côtes-du-Rhône, Rhône Valley, France
Farming: Organic
Style: Red. Fresh, savory and effortlessly enjoyable
Franck Balthazar is best known for his esteemed Cornas domaine, but his Côtes-du-Rhône Rouge offers a glimpse of that same gentle, traditional touch at a far more accessible level. The fruit comes from sites just south of Cornas, where Syrah grows on a mix of granite and clay-limestone soils. Farming is organic and the winemaking follows his top cuvées, focusing on whole-cluster fermentation, native yeasts and aging in old barrels to keep the wine fresh and unadorned.
The 2023 is vibrant and lifted, showing blackberry, dark cherry and a touch of pepper, along with subtle floral notes that feel true to northern Rhône Syrah. The palate is smooth and energetic, with fine tannins and a clean, savory finish. It’s an honest, beautifully made Côtes-du-Rhône that delivers real character and an easy sense of drinkability.
Varietal: Syrah, Grenache
Appellation: Côtes-du-Rhône, Rhône Valley, France
Farming: Organic
Style: Red. Fresh, savory and effortlessly enjoyable
