2021 Elodie Balme Côtes du Rhône

Taking her first steps in the wine world at young age of 19, Elodie Balme studied viticulture and oenology where she became inspired by the biodynamic practices of her mentor, Marcel Richaud, a pioneer in the Southern Rhône. n 2006, at just 23 years old, Elodie founded Domaine Elodie Balme with fruit from 3.5 hectares of her family’s vineyards. Over time, her estate has grown to 22 hectares, with a particular focus on the Rasteau appellation. While her father Bernard initially worked the vineyards conventionally, Élodie has transformed the estate by eliminating most chemical treatments and incorporating organic and biodynamic practices. Her efforts toward organic farming are steadily progressing, with the estate moving closer to full organic certification each year.

In the cellar, Elodie champions a natural approach to winemaking, using spontaneous fermentation initiated by a pied de cuve and aging the wine in concrete to preserve the purity of the fruit. She adds no sulfur during fermentation and aging, instead applying a small dose after blending and a tiny amount at bottling.