Banyuls Traditionnel 1987, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1987, L'Etoile
Price: 195,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
A sunny vintage, the 1987 Banyuls Traditionnel from the Cave de l’Étoile embodies the excellence of a century-old vineyard, shaped on the steep schist slopes overlooking the Mediterranean. Made from old vines of Black and Grey Grenache, complemented by Carignan, this natural sweet wine showcases the ancestral expertise of the cooperative, heir to a unique winemaking heritage. Bottled in January 2016, it reflects nearly thirty years of patience and a rare art of aging.
Vinification
The grapes, crushed and destemmed, underwent mutage on the skins after fermentation, followed by an extended three-week maceration. Pressed in traditional vertical presses, the wine was then aged in an oxidative environment in old demi-muids and century-old barrels, where it slowly developed its aromatic complexity and the patina of a great wine for aging.
Tasting Notes
Its deep tawny color signals an intense bouquet of dried figs, toasted walnuts, leather, and spices, lifted by subtle notes of noble rancio. On the palate, full-bodied and velvety, it combines sweetness and freshness in remarkable balance, with a long finish accented by mocha and candied orange peel. An ideal vintage to enjoy with chocolate fondant, walnut tart, or, for the adventurous, a well-aged cheese such as Roquefort.
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:
Aged for nearly thirty years in demi-muids, this 1987 Banyuls blends dried fig, toasted walnut, leather, and spices, enhanced by a subtle rancio. The full-bodied, balanced palate finishes with a long mocha and candied orange note. Perfect with dark chocolate or strong cheeses.