Banyuls Traditionnel 1980, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1980, L'Etoile
Price: 305,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
The 1980 vintage illustrates the resilience of Banyuls vines clinging to the schist slopes overlooking the Mediterranean. Aged for more than three decades, this vin doux naturel showcases the art of long aging, where each year in barrel enriches its aromatic complexity.
Vinification
A blend of Grenache Noir, Grenache Gris, and Carignan from old vines grown on terraced slopes. Grapes were destemmed and crushed, fermentation was halted by fortification (mutage) on the skins, followed by prolonged maceration. Oxidative aging took place in old barrels and demi-muids until bottling in January 2016.
Tasting Notes
Amber-colored robe with copper highlights, preceding a complex nose of toasted dried fruits, walnut, cocoa, coffee, and noble rancio notes. On the palate, a broad attack balances sweetness and freshness, revealing persistent flavors of prune, gentle spices, and mocha. Best enjoyed with aged Comté, poached pear in spiced wine, or a chocolate-orange dessert.
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:
Born on the steep slopes of Banyuls, the 1980 vintage is a vin doux naturel aged for over 30 years in old barrels. Its amber-colored robe reveals a nose of dried fruits, cocoa, and rancio. On the palate, it combines sweetness and freshness with notes of prune, mocha, and spices. Ideal with aged Comté or a chocolate dessert.