“A terroir-driven wine made by blending 42% Tannat, 39% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Petit Verdot, the 2020 Balasto is meant to be decanted and aged further in bottle, already given five years before release. Made only in certain vintages (the first one was 2015), the goal is capturing the highest quality possible from the site, and as such, the blend changes every time, though Tannat is typically the backbone of the wine for structure. The Cabernet Franc brings freshness and notions of balsamic and graphite, while the forceful Petit Verdot brings texture, red fruit, and spice. An expression of place, philosophy, vineyard, and vintage, it succeeds in its tremendous structure and power, fully integrated in black pepper, tobacco, and tomato leaf.” — Jeb Dunnuck, May 2025

The vibrancy of this wine is one of its main characteristics. Aromas of cherry jam, fig and mulberry form an aromatic nose. The energized palate shares the same notes of black fruit, with a whisper of smoke and dried herbs. This wine is elegant and silky and has the structure needed to age beautifully. — Wine Enthusiast, Dec 2023