When speaking of Banyuls Grand Cru, we touch the very pinnacle of the Banyuls appellation. These natural sweet wines, made mainly from Grenache Noir, stand out for their long oxidative aging which enhances aromas of candied fruit, cocoa, coffee, and spices.
At Vinodelice, we offer a rare selection of Banyuls Grand Crus from Cave l’Étoile, a true historical reference of the vineyard. From older vintages such as 1994 and 1995 to more recent cuvées like 2014, each bottle promises emotion and makes a perfect gift for a discerning wine lover.
What is a Banyuls Grand Cru?
A Banyuls Grand Cru is a natural sweet wine that meets strict criteria:
- Minimum 75% Grenache Noir in the blend.
- Aging of at least 30 months in oak barrels (often much longer).
- Vines grown on the steep hillsides of Roussillon, a heroic vineyard where vines cling to schist terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.
This demanding set of rules gives the wine its depth, complexity, and exceptional aging potential.
Styles and Aromatic Profiles
Banyuls Grand Cru is recognizable by its amber or tile-red colour with garnet highlights and its intense aromas:
- Candied fruits (fig, prune, date)
- Chocolate notes and roasted coffee
- Sweet spices, vanilla, cinnamon
- The famous rancio, typical of long oxidative aging
On the palate, it offers velvety richness, balanced by a freshness that harmonizes its sweetness.
Our Banyuls Grand Crus: the Signature of Cave l’Étoile
Founded in 1921, Cave l’Étoile is one of the leading names in Banyuls wines. Its Grand Cru cuvées are regularly praised by critics for their elegance and authenticity.
Our collection brings together emblematic vintages:
Food Pairings: the Magic of Banyuls Grand Cru
Banyuls Grand Cru is famous for its legendary pairings:
- With dark chocolate: the perfect match, praised worldwide.
- With blue cheeses (Roquefort, Stilton, Gorgonzola): intensity meets creaminess.
- With dried fruit desserts: walnut tart, gingerbread, roasted figs.
- As a digestif or meditation wine: enjoyed alone to savour all its complexity.
Aging Potential
Thanks to their structure and long aging, Banyuls Grand Crus can be stored for decades without losing brilliance; in fact, they often become even more refined. To gift an old Banyuls Grand Cru is to offer a piece of history.
The Ultimate Expression of Roussillon Wines
Banyuls Grand Cru is much more than a natural sweet wine: it is the ultimate expression of Roussillon, at the crossroads of tradition and time. Discover our collection,
almost exclusively from Cave l’Étoile, and let yourself be seduced by these vintage treasures, to savour or to gift.
FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Banyuls Grand Cru
What’s the difference between Banyuls and Banyuls Grand Cru?
Grand Cru must contain at least 75% Grenache Noir and be aged a minimum of 30 months in oak barrels. This gives it greater complexity and aging potential.
What are the best pairings with a Banyuls Grand Cru?
Dark chocolate is the classic match, but it also pairs beautifully with blue cheeses, dried fruits, and spiced desserts.
How long can a Banyuls Grand Cru be kept?
Several decades: some vintages are still radiant after 50 years or more.
Why offer a Banyuls Grand Cru?
Because it is a rare and refined wine, full of history, perfect for celebrating an anniversary, a birth, or a special occasion.
Which estates produce Banyuls Grand Cru?
Cave l’Étoile is one of the most iconic, but other producers exist, such as Domaine Cazes. At Vinodelice, we also offer the Adrien Cazes cuvées.
Where can you buy a Banyuls Grand Cru?
They are available at select wine shops and online. At Vinodelice, you will find a rare collection, centered on Cave l’Étoile cuvées, with vintages ranging from the 1990s to 2014.
What is the price of a Banyuls Grand Cru?
The price depends on vintage and rarity. Expect €30–50 for a recent vintage, and €100 or more for older and prestigious bottles. At Vinodelice, you’ll find cuvées ranging from €27 to over €130, suitable for all budgets.
