M. Chapoutier Banyuls - 2008 - 500mL

M. Chapoutier BANYULS 2007   $27.99 500ml (16.9 oz)

The Pyrenees region of Southwest France just north of the Spanish border appeals to Michel Chapoutier for the challenge of the vineyards:  very old knarled vines, sun-baked on steep, southeast facing hills overhanging the sea. Given the choice of walking through the vineyards of Banyuls or viewing them from a catamaran on the Mediterranean, the decision was easy. From the water, it was clearly evident how these unique conditions yield this deliciously sweet red wine.  With one of the lowest rainfalls in all of France and no irrigation permitted, the roots are forced deep for moisture and nourishment. Thus, a more concentrated sap is taken up to the berries, contributing to the quality of the grapes.

Banyuls is a fortified dessert wine made from the ideal hot climate grape, Grenache Noir. The production process, known in France as mutage, is similar to that used to make Port. Alcohol is added to the must to halt fermentation while sugar levels are still high, preserving the natural sugar of the grape.  The wine is aged in oak for 18 to 24 months, depending on the vintage.  Characteristic aromas and flavors are dried fruits, plums and cocoa.   In fact, it is considered the best wine match for chocolate desserts, and is also excellent with blue cheese.  As with other 16% alcohol wines, a serving of 2 to 3 ounces is proper.

The appellation zone for Banyuls and Collioure is the same.  The full-bodied, dry red wine from here (grenache and mourvedre) carries the appellation Collioure, after the picturesque artist colony and seaport of that name.  Only the fortified wine is labeled Banyuls.