Cuvée Adrien Cazes, Banyuls 'Traditionnel' 2015
Cuvée Adrien Cazes, Banyuls 'Traditionnel' 2015
Price: 32,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
Maison Cazes, founded by Michel Cazes in 1895, truly flourished under the impetus of André Cazes, who launched the first bottling in 1955. This eight-year-old Banyuls Grand Cru pays tribute to Adrien Cazes, representative of the new generation. The estate cultivates vines over 40 years old, rooted in schist hillsides overlooking the Mediterranean — an exceptional terroir for these naturally sweet wines of recognised prestige.
Winemaking and ageing
Composed of 80% Grenache Noir and 20% Grenache Gris, this Banyuls Grand Cru is crafted according to traditional methods. Destemmed and crushed grapes undergo a maceration of at least three weeks with pumping over to extract the maximum potential from the fruit, followed by traditional mutage. The micro-oxidative ageing in oak foudres extends over several years, conferring complexity and depth to this exceptional wine.
Tasting notes
On the nose, the aromas are subtle and develop harmoniously: dried fruits, fresh walnuts and prune eau-de-vie compose a complex palette that blossoms over time. On the palate, the whole reveals a beautiful amplitude and perfect balance. Ideal with a blue cheese, a 10/12-month aged Comté, or as a digestif accompanied by chocolate-dipped orange peel.
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:
Fresher than the 2014, with a nice dry fruit and soft spice character. Great with aged Comté.