Banyuls Grand Cru 1995, ‘Cuvée Réservée’, L’Etoile
Banyuls Grand Cru 1995, ‘Cuvée Réservée’, L’Etoile
Price: 130,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
Founded in 1921, the Cave de l’Étoile is the oldest cooperative in Banyuls. It has built its reputation on its timeless Grand Crus, true witnesses of the heroic vineyards of schist overlooking the Mediterranean. The 1995 “Cuvée Réservée,” produced in only 2,600 bottles, was awarded 3 stars in the 2020 Guide Hachette, a mark of an exceptional wine.
Vinification
Hand-harvested on steep slopes, this Grand Cru is made using traditional methods: destemmed and lightly crushed grapes, mutage on the skins to preserve natural sugars, followed by a long maceration of 15 to 20 days. After pressing, the wine undergoes extended oxidative aging in old oak casks, far exceeding the 30 months required by the appellation, imparting unique aromatic depth.
Tasting Notes
Its deep tawny color precedes a refined nose of candied orange, prune, coffee, and a subtle smoky touch. On the palate, power and elegance intertwine, supported by a long, harmonious finish. It pairs beautifully with fig-stuffed foie gras, aged cheeses (Roquefort, old Comté), or chocolate and coffee desserts. A wine for meditation, capable of aging gracefully for several more decades under proper conditions.
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:
Fruity, elegant, and long on the palate, this Banyuls 1995 is best enjoyed with chocolate, foie gras, or aged cheeses.