Franck Balthazar took over from his father in 2002 and—with the addition of century-old vines in Chaillot from his uncle Noël Verset, one of the best-known names in Cornas—has become an icon of the appellation’s best opportunities. The wines are vinified with whole clusters and aged mostly in large casks, and they find that just-right balance between fine tannin, complex fragrance, and moderate weight. Franck’s flagship wine is the “Chaillot” bottling, from the fruit of century-old Petite Syrah vines that create a wine of stunning depth, concentration, and complexity. While seductive out-of-the-gate, this wine will age elegantly thanks to Balthazar’s light touch in the cellar. Glass staining appearance sets up a concentrated delivery of boysenberry and kirschwasser. As the primary fruit settles, the subtitles of violets, crushed petals and allspice take center stage. The sexy floral notes are contrasted by sauvage meaty notes on the mid-palate. This Syrah is full of clarity and expansive layers that unfold after 60-minutes in the glass. Beautifully expressive and classically crafted. This is a slam dunk for Rhone aficionados and collectors.