Banyuls Traditionnel 1960, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1960, L'Etoile
Price: 600,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
A pivotal vintage, the Banyuls Traditionnel 1960 perfectly illustrates the patience and expertise of the Cave de l’Étoile, a pioneer of the region since 1921. From the heroic vineyards of Banyuls, where Grenache vines cling to the steep schist terraces, this rare bottle has endured over six decades of oxidative aging—a true journey through time for enthusiasts and collectors.
Vinification
Predominantly made from Grenache noir, complemented by Grenache gris and Carignan, this naturally sweet wine is crafted according to tradition: manual harvesting, crushing, mutage on the skins to preserve natural sugars, followed by prolonged maceration. The wine is then aged in old oak casks and century-old barrels, where slow oxidation shapes its complex aromas and unique character.
Tasting Notes
Its dark, mahogany-reflected color precedes a refined nose of walnuts, toasted dried fruits, figs, and cocoa, enriched with notes of noble rancio and gentle spices. On the palate, it is broad and profound, revealing remarkable intensity balanced between sweetness and freshness, with a long and elegant finish. Perfect as a meditation wine, this 1960 also pairs beautifully with aged Comté, a robust blue cheese, or intense dark chocolate.
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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An exceptional gift: 65 years of history in a bottle.