My Store
Franck Balthazar, Cote du Rhone, 2022
Franck Balthazar, Cote du Rhone, 2022
Couldn't load pickup availability
Nephew of the great Noël Verset, Franck Balthazar made his first vintage in 2002 and produces around 4,000 bottles. His smallholding of just 4 hectares is next to the ever-expanding Colombo, the winery built directly behind his home in the heart of the village. He works with 100% whole-bunch, minimal sulphur and Ecocert (organic) accreditation, producing wines that are cool and well-measured.
Winemaking: The wine is fermented using wild (indigenous) yeasts and aged primarily in concrete and stainless steel tanks (90-95%) with a small portion in used oak casks for about 9-10 months. It is bottled unfiltered, emphasizing a light, natural touch.
Aromas & Flavors: The nose is noted for a wealth of vibrant red and black fruits, floral notes (violet, cherry blossom), and hints of spice, mint, and flinty minerality. The palate delivers juicy black raspberry and cherry flavors, with a touch of succulent herbs.
Structure: It is described as full-bodied yet fresh, with supple, sappy tannins and a long finish that is both fruity and "crunchy".
Cheese: Complements various hard cheeses, such as Gouda.
Cuisine: Its food-friendly nature makes it a good match for simple, tasty dishes, including Chinese cuisine like dim sum or beef with noodles.
Grape: Grenache, Syrah
Region: Rhone
