Banyuls Traditionnel 1958, L'Etoile
Banyuls Traditionnel 1958, L'Etoile
Price: 620,00€
DESCRIPTION
History
The 1958 vintage is a legendary year for the Cave de l’Étoile, hailed as one of the finest aged Banyuls ever produced. Preserved for more than half a century in the cooperative’s old oak casks, this wine reflects the patience and dedication of the winemakers who, generation after generation, maintained the steep schist terraces and endured the “angel’s share” to deliver today a true collector’s treasure.
Vinification
Made primarily from Grenache Noir, complemented by Grenache Gris and Carignan, the wine was produced through crushing, destemming, and mutage on the grapes. Extended maceration allowed for the extraction of body and complexity before an exceptional oxidative aging in century-old barrels and demi-muids. This long maturation has shaped the aromatic depth that defines this vintage.
Tasting Notes
The deep amber robe with mahogany highlights announces a wine at full maturity. The nose, remarkably youthful despite its age, opens with cherry and walnut aromas, enhanced by soft spices and elegant notes of rancio. The palate is smooth and velvety, marked by an exceptional harmony between sweetness and freshness. The persistent, vibrant finish makes it a true classic of oxidative aging. Best enjoyed with aged Parmesan, a walnut tart, or a dark chocolate 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:
A sun-kissed wine, with aromas of cherry, walnuts, and untouched youth.