Franck Balthazar, Cornas Sans Soufre Ajoute Vintage:2022 lemon zest and discreet wood

lemon zest and discreet wood toast

cassis and blackberry fruit

A slightly more elegant and somewhat higher-toned nose of the essence of red cherry isn't quite as spicy but is even more layered

Fairly strong reduction blocks the nose though glimpses of ripe black fruit and the natural spice of a classic RSV peek through and continue onto the rich

mingled with delicate notes of vanilla pod

Franck Balthazar, Cornas Sans Soufre Ajoute Vintage:2022 lemon zest and discreet woodMade from Balthazar's youngest Cornas vines, the 2018 Cornas Sans Soufre Ajout showcases ebullient notes of fresh raspberries. It's full bodied, lush and velvety yet also fresh, vibrant and immediate. I'd drink it young to capture that spirit, in spite of the substantial, dusty, cocoa like tannins on the finish.