History

The Cave de l’Étoile, founded in 1921, is one of Banyuls’ most iconic references. Perched on steep schist slopes overlooking the Mediterranean, it preserves the art of producing great fortified sweet wines. This 2002 Grand Cru showcases the full expertise of the estate: a rare wine from old vines that combines power, complexity, and elegance.

Vinification

Hand-harvested on the schist terraces, the grapes are crushed and destemmed before undergoing mutage on the skins with the addition of neutral grape spirit. A long maceration (15 to 20 days) extracts the full aromatic richness and deep color. After pressing, the wine undergoes extended oxidative aging in oak barrels. Banyuls Grand Cru wines require a minimum of 30 months of aging, often much longer, to achieve this exceptional maturity.

Tasting Notes

The nose reveals remarkable intensity: black candied fruits, prunes, cocoa, coffee, and spices, evolving with age toward notes of fig, walnut, and leather. On the palate, the texture is rich, creamy, and balanced by a lively freshness, with a long, persistent finish. Enjoy with dark chocolate desserts, coffee-caramel entremets, duck with figs, or a blue cheese. This 2002 vintage has remarkable aging potential, capable of lasting for several decades.