Banyuls Traditionnel 1955, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1955, L'Etoile
Price: 670,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
A legendary vintage, the Banyuls Traditionnel 1955 now celebrates its 70th anniversary. Born in the heroic schist vineyards overlooking the Mediterranean, it reflects the perseverance of the winemakers of the Cave de l’Étoile, a pioneer of the appellation since 1921. This rare bottle, shaped by decades of oxidative aging, stands as an invaluable collector’s piece for lovers of fine naturally sweet wines.
Vinification
Composed mainly of Grenache noir, accompanied by Grenache gris and Carignan, this Banyuls was crafted according to tradition: hand-harvested grapes, destemmed and crushed, mutage on the fermenting must, followed by extended maceration before pressing in a vertical press. Oxidative aging in old foudres and century-old barrels concentrated its aromas and sculpted its depth over time.
Tasting Notes
Its dark robe with mahogany highlights precedes a refined bouquet of walnuts, noble rancio, dried fruits, leather, and cocoa. The palate is broad and silky, expressing a unique harmony of power and elegance, with an endless finish. A true wine for contemplation, this 1955 enhances blue cheeses, chocolate desserts, or can be savored on its own as a timeless sensory experience.
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.
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A 70-year-old Banyuls that proves the generosity of Grenache defies time.