Franck Balthazar Côtes du Rhône, Rhône Valley, France 2023

Domaine Franck Balthazar was founded in 1931. Managed since 2002 by Franck, who succeeded his father René (who had been in charge since 1950 and supervised the transition to estate bottling in the 1970s). The estate has grown from 2 hectares in 2002 (1 hectare of century-old vines in Chaillot and 1 hectare of vines around 50 years old in Mazard) to around 3.5 hectares today. Plantings on a steep site above Sabarotte were added in 2005 and 2008 on newly formed terraces. Franck Balthazar's objective is to maintain the traditional approach of his grandfather, Casimir. The Casimir 2021 vintage, named in honor of Grandfather Casimir, comes from old Syrah vines on the granite soils of Mazar in Cornas.

• WINEMAKER: Franck Balthazar

• FARMING: Certified Organic, practicing sustainable viticulture with minimal intervention.

• VARIETY: Predominantly Syrah, with Grenache and other local varietals (exact blend not specified).

• TERROIR: The grapes are sourced from several parcels located across the northern Rhône Valley. The vineyards benefit from the region’s distinct terroir, with diverse soil types including clay, limestone, and granite, which contribute to the wine's structure and minerality. The hot, dry Mediterranean climate, tempered by the Mistral wind, provides optimal ripening conditions for the grapes.

• VINIFICATION: The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo fermentation with wild yeasts in traditional open-top fermenters. The wine is gently punched down during fermentation to extract optimal flavor and color. Minimal sulfur is used to preserve the wine's natural expression.

• AGING: The wine is aged for 12 months in a mix of concrete tanks and neutral French oak barrels, which allows for a harmonious integration of fruit and tannins without overpowering the delicate aromatics.

• TASTING NOTES: This Côtes du Rhône is vibrant and expressive, with aromas of ripe blackberries, plum, and cracked pepper, balanced by herbal and earthy undertones. On the palate, the wine offers a juicy and medium-bodied profile with smooth tannins, fresh acidity, and a slightly smoky finish that lingers with hints of violet and dark chocolate. The wine showcases both the richness of Syrah and the freshness of Grenache.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with grilled meats, lamb, ratatouille, or a variety of cheeses such as aged Gruyère or Chèvre.

• SCORES: 91 Points – Wine Advocate