Banyuls Traditionnel 1986, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1986, L'Etoile
Price: 210,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
Produced by the Cave de l’Étoile, a pioneer and benchmark of the Banyuls appellation, the 1986 vintage reflects centuries of expertise. The vines, rooted in the steep schist slopes overlooking the Mediterranean, give rise to this natural sweet wine, aged for nearly thirty years before bottling in January 2016. A true testament to patience and authenticity, it is rare on the market.
Vinification
The blend consists of Black and Grey Grenache, complemented by Carignan from old vines. After crushing and destemming, the grapes underwent mutage on the skins during fermentation, followed by an extended three-week maceration. Oxidative aging in old barrels and demi-muids shaped its mature aromas, respecting the traditional Banyuls style.
Tasting Notes
Its tawny color with mahogany highlights precedes a captivating nose of dried fruits, bitter cocoa, leather, and blond tobacco, complemented by a hint of honey. On the palate, it is dense and warm, balanced by beautiful freshness that supports a long, slightly saline finish. Best enjoyed with Tarte Tatin, coffee-praline desserts, or game in sauce for a surprising pairing.
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 slopes swept by the Tramontane, this 1986 Banyuls has matured for nearly thirty years in old demi-muids. Its tawny color reveals a nose of dried fruits, cocoa, leather, and blond tobacco, with a hint of honey. The dense and fresh palate finishes with a long, saline finish. Perfect with Tarte Tatin or coffee-praline desserts.