Banyuls Traditionnel 1948, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1948, L'Etoile
Price: 860,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
The 1948 vintage is one of the absolute treasures of the Cave de l’Étoile. A testament to unique expertise and infinite patience, it has spent more than seven decades in the cooperative cellar’s old oak casks and demijohns, sheltered from the sea winds and the scorching summers of Banyuls-sur-Mer. A true time capsule, this wine illustrates the extraordinary aging potential of oxidatively aged Banyuls and their status as highly sought-after collector’s items.
Vinification
Made from Grenache noir, complemented by Grenache gris and Carignan, harvested at high maturity, then destemmed and crushed. After mutage on the grapes, prolonged maceration allowed for the extraction of intensity and richness. The oxidative aging, carried out in demi-muids and century-old barrels, let the “angel’s share” shape the wine, concentrating its aromas and enhancing the rancio over time.
Tasting Notes
Deep mahogany color with brick highlights. The nose is captivating, blending walnuts, roasted coffee, oriental spices, aged leather, and a noble rancio expressed brilliantly. On the palate, the texture is broad and silky, carried by an astonishing energy despite its age. Flavors of dried fruit, cocoa, and gingerbread intertwine in an endless, vibrant, and meditative finish. An oenological monument, to be savored on its own or paired with an aged Comté, 100% cocoa chocolate, or a connoisseur’s cigar.
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:
A vibrant vintage, where the intensity of candied fruit meets the elegance of rancio.