Banyuls Grand Cru 2013, L'Etoile
Banyuls Grand Cru 2013, L'Etoile
Price: 27,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
Founded in 1921, the Cave de l’Étoile is one of the most renowned names in the Banyuls appellation. Its winemakers preserve a rare expertise on the steep schist slopes that plunge toward the Mediterranean. The 2013 vintage, marked by excellent grape ripeness, gives rise to an elegant and concentrated Banyuls Grand Cru, worthy of the finest tables.
Vinification
The harvest, done by hand, is destemmed and lightly crushed before a long maceration (15–20 days) to extract power and aromatic richness. Mutage on the grapes, with the addition of neutral grape spirit, preserves part of the natural sugars. After pressing, the wine ages in oak casks for at least 30 months, in accordance with Grand Cru requirements, developing depth and complexity.
Tasting Notes
The deep color precedes a complex nose of black candied fruits, cocoa, and soft spices, complemented by evolving notes of fig and coffee. On the palate, the balance of power and freshness delights with its elegance. Traditionally sublime with chocolate desserts or aged cheeses, this Banyuls Grand Cru also pairs beautifully with modern dishes: chocolate fondant with Espelette pepper, cocoa and red fruit tart, as well as fusion cuisine such as Asian-style lacquered duck breast or a decadent blue cheese burger.
REGION
Roussillon
France
Between sea and mountain, the vines of Banyuls, an AOC since 1936, cling to schist slopes that plunge down to the Mediterranean. This spectacular setting, bathed in sun and wind, shapes generous, intense vins doux naturels. The appellation mainly produces reds from Grenache Noir, completed by Grenache Gris and Blanc, as well as amber, tawny and rosé versions.
Banyuls comes in several styles. Banyuls Rimage, made and aged away from air, shows all the freshness of the fruit, with aromas of cherry, blackberry or blackcurrant, sometimes with a touch of chocolate. Approachable young, it shines with dark chocolate, fruit desserts and some blue cheeses. By contrast, Banyuls Traditionnel and Grand Cru go through long oxidative ageing in cask or glass demijohn, developing complex notes of walnut, coffee, spice and rancio. The Grands Crus, from old vines and aged for at least 30 months, stand out for their depth and great ageing potential.
Recommended for you:
The Banyuls Grand Cru 2013, L’Étoile, offers aromas of black candied fruits, cocoa, and spices, with a rich and velvety palate. Perfect with chocolate, aged cheeses, or as a digestif.