2018 Franck Balthazar Cornas Chaillot

Grapes are handpicked from granite-rich soils, about half from a 97-year old parcel which Franck purchased from Noël Verset. In the cellar, the grapes are fermented whole bunch with stems, with manual punch downs. From here, the wine is moved to 600 liter demi-muids, where they are aged for about 18 months before bottling.
96 Points Josh Raynolds: " A highly perfumed nose evokes an array of fresh, mineral-accented dark fruits and pungent flowers, along with suggestions of game, licorice and incense. Palate-staining, appealingly sweet, spice-laced cherry, cassis and floral pastille flavors show superb energy and a smoky mineral quality that strengthens with air. Finishes on a youthfully tannic note, with building sweetness and a lingering suggestion of exotic spices."