Banyuls 2017

Spread out on steep, narrow terraces, the Banyuls appellation overhangs the Mediterranean Sea. More than two thousand years old, the vineyards are still hand-worked, and are rooted in stony schist soils. M. Chapoutier Banyuls is a “vin doux naturel,” fortified wine that is exceptional and age-worthy. It is naturally sweet, shows full fruit and wonderful character that is universally perfect with fruit, cheese and/or chocolate desserts.

APPEARANCE: Deep ruby-garnet

NOSE: Dried fruits, crystallized orange peel and freshly cracked black pepper

PALATE: Rich layers of dried plum, dark chocolate and a hint of baking spices

APPELLATION: Banyuls

VARIETAL: 90% Grenache noir, 10% others

TERROIR: Schisty soils

VINIFICATION: Grapes are hand picked when very ripe. They are destemmed and crushed. A long fermentation is halted with the addition of pure alcohol, retaining natural sugars and ensuring a good extraction of aroma, flavor, and tannin.

Alcohol: 16.5%

Aging: Aged in oak casks and steel vats from 16 to 23 months depending on vintages.

Suggested Pairings:  Delicious with dessert pairings such as, Brownies, Chocolate chips, Chocolate cakes, Peanut Brittle, mixed dry fruit, prunes, dates, tapas, watermelon, Chocolate ice cream and sorbets, foie gras, sweet and sour dishes, goat’s cheese and blue cheese

Serving Temperature: 12°C (51.8°F) 

Aging Potential: 5 years