Banyuls Traditionnel 1988, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1988, L'Etoile
Price: 180,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
In the heart of the schist slopes that plunge toward the Mediterranean, the Cave de l’Étoile has been preserving the art of Banyuls since 1921. The 1988 vintage, more temperate than its successor in 1989, gave birth to cuvées of remarkable balance, where elegance takes precedence over power.
Vinification
Black Grenache, Grey Grenache, and a touch of Carignan from old vines are destemmed, crushed, then fortified on the skins. After extended maceration, the wine is aged for a long period in century-old barrels and large oak demi-muids, in an oxidative environment. Nearly three decades of patience have shaped this unique profile.
Tasting Notes
Its amber-copper hue announces a wine of maturity. The nose develops fine notes of dried fruits, fig, and walnut, lifted by hints of mocha, leather, and elegant rancio. On the palate, the broad attack unfolds into remarkable freshness, with a persistent finish carrying accents of candied fruit and gentle spices. A true meditation wine, perfect with dark chocolate, aged Comté, or simply enjoyed on its own to contemplate the passage of time.
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:
This 1988 Banyuls, marked by time and sun, whispers notes of mocha, walnut, and dried fruits. Its gentle freshness and spicy finish invite contemplation, whether enjoyed on its own or with intense dark chocolate.