A Banyuls from the dramatic cliff-top vineyards of Roussillon, made by Domaine de Valcros from 100% Grenache Noir via six weeks of maceration under alcohol in concrete vats — a vin doux naturel of extraordinary aromatic richness and a famously long finish.
Tasting Notes
Deep, garnet ruby. The nose is extraordinary: cherry, blackberry, blueberry jam, dried fruit, and a sweet, warming depth. Wonderfully rounded on the palate with a long, lingering finish. Balanced between richness and freshness, with the concentration that only Grenache on these ancient slate and schist soils can produce.
Quick Facts
- Grape: 100% Grenache Noir
- Origin: France, Roussillon, Banyuls AOC (Pyrenees-Orientales, Mediterranean coastal)
- Style: Vin doux naturel (fortified sweet wine), organic and biodynamic farming
- Winemaking: Manual harvest, destemmed, 6 weeks maceration under alcohol in concrete, 12 months in concrete, filtered but not fined
Food Pairing
Duck with figs, Roquefort blue cheese, red berry desserts, dark chocolate, and chocolate fondant. The classic Banyuls and chocolate pairing is as good as wine pairing gets.
Serving
Serve at 14-16°C. Excellent as a dessert wine or with strong cheeses after dinner.
About the Producer
Domaine de Valcros is an estate in the Banyuls and Roussillon appellations of southern France, farming sustainably with organic and biodynamic practices on the dramatic Mediterranean coastal slopes. Their Banyuls is a genuine expression of this ancient, underrated appellation.
