Cornas 2022 Sans Soufre Ajouté Franck Balthazar | Rhône

The Cornas Sans Soufre Ajouté cuvée from the Franck Balthazar wine estate is made from hillside vines planted on the finest Cornas terroirs. This cuvée was released in 2012 from a single barrel. Fermentation in whole bunches lasts 2 weeks, with indigenous yeasts and manual bâtonnage. Ageing lasts 14 months in 600-liter barrels, no sulfites are added, and the wine is bottled unfined, unfiltered, all handled by gravity.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : The Cornas Sans Soufre Ajouté cuvée from the Franck Balthazar wine estate is a bold and pure expression of the Cornas terroir. The decision to add no sulfur underscores the winemaker's desire to let the grapes and wine express themselves unhindered. This winemaking style may appeal to natural wine lovers looking for authentic, unadorned wines.

On the nose, this cuvée is characterized by powerful, expressive aromas. Notes of black fruits such as blackberry, black cherry and plum are accompanied by spicy, peppery and floral nuances.

On the palate , Cornas Sans Soufre Ajouté offers an intense, authentic experience. The tannins are well present, the aromatics a little rustic at first, reflecting the natural character of the terroir. Black fruit flavors are often complemented by hints of garrigue, pepper and even smoke. The finish is generous and deep, testifying to the wine's sincerity and respect for the terroir.