Côtes du Rhône Rouge, Franck Balthazar 2020

Remarkable value for money, Balthazar's Cotes du Rhone comes from Grenache and young vine Syrah with about 50% wholebunch fermentation ahead of a 10 month elevage in tank. Bright ruby purple in colour, the nose bursts from the glass with ripe red fruit, black pepper and a little bacon fat. The palate is lined with ripe, sappy tannins but they melt into the juicy fruit at the core. Approachable but full of character, wild red berries, white pepper and a hint of dried flowers all come through. Lightly pithy on the finish, this is succulent and moreish. Delicious now, it can be enjoyed over the next 5-8 years.