History

A rare 70-year-old vintage, the 1953 Banyuls Traditionnel embodies the grandeur of the old natural sweet wines of Roussillon. From the heroic vineyard of schist terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, it was shaped by decades of oxidative aging under the care of the Cave de l’Étoile, the region’s oldest cooperative founded in 1921. A true witness of history, this bottle illustrates the nobility of Grenache and the ancestral expertise of the winemakers.

Vinification

Made primarily from Grenache noir, complemented by Grenache gris and Carignan, this Banyuls follows the traditional method: hand-harvested grapes, destemmed and crushed, then mutage on the grapes to preserve natural sweetness, followed by prolonged maceration and vertical pressing. Its oxidative aging in old casks and century-old barrels has developed an exceptionally deep aromatic profile.

Tasting Notes

The dark mahogany robe with brick highlights reveals an enchanting nose of toasted nuts, dried fruits, cocoa, and leather, enriched by a refined and noble rancio. On the palate, power and smoothness mingle with surprising freshness, leading to a long, harmonious finish. This 1953 is an exceptional meditation wine, perfect for solitary tasting or paired with aged cheeses and intense dark chocolate.