Banyuls

Wine information: Chapoutier Banyuls is a Vin Doux Natural from the narrow and steep terraces of the Banyuls Appellation which overhangs the Mediterranean sea. The vineyards here are over two thousand years old and the vineyard is rooted in a stony schist soil and benefits from exceptional atmospheric conditions - the rare stormy showers which water this exceptional land, still hand worked, quickly drain away via an unique and efficient system. This wine is a blend of 90% Grenache and 10% other grape varieties from very old vines, the grapes are hand-harvested when they become very ripe. The grapes are destemmed and crushed and then fermented. After a certain period of time the wine is fortified with grape spirit which halts the fermentation process thus preserving a good amount of natural sweetness. This technique was devised by Arnau de Vilanova in 1285. After fortication the wine is aged in vats from 16 to 20 months.

Tasting Notes: Chapoutier Banyuls is a dark garnet in colour with a touch of dry fruit, crystallised orange and pepper on the nose. Powerful chocolate and dried prune flavours on the palate and a fine, balanced structure means this wine has excellent ageing potential.

Food & Wine match: Try as an aperitif or with blue cheese or chocolate desserts.

from www.farehamwinedirect.co.uk

 
     

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