History

Founded in 1921, the Cave de l’Étoile is a benchmark of Banyuls-sur-Mer. For over a century, it has upheld the art of age-worthy sweet wines, with expertise passed down through generations. The 1996 “Select Vieux” vintage, aged nearly 25 years in the old foudres of L’Étoile, embodies the authenticity of Grenache noir and the richness of the schist terroir overlooking the Mediterranean.

Vinification

The grapes are hand-harvested, then destemmed and gently crushed. Alcoholic fermentation, carefully temperature-controlled, is halted by mutage on the grapes, followed by three weeks of maceration under alcohol. After pressing, the wine undergoes a long oxidative aging in demi-muids and old oak barrels for 15 years, gradually refining its intensity and complexity.

Tasting Notes

The deep-colored wine develops copper and brown reflections reminiscent of coffee. The nose opens with candied fruits, prunes, and figs, evolving into notes of roasted coffee, leather, and wax. On the palate, it is rich, rounded, and velvety, with an elegant aromatic progression finishing on long roasted notes. Ideal with seared foie gras, duck with figs, chocolate-coffee desserts, or even paired with a fine Havana cigar for enthusiasts. A timeless Grand Cru, destined for centuries of aging.