Banyuls by Pierre Gaillard, Domaine Madeloc, 'Robert Pages', Banyuls, France, NV (500ml)

Overview of the Wine
Pierre Gaillard, winemaker of Côte Rôtie, Saint Joseph, and Condrieu, has always been fascinated by the scenic beauty of Banyuls and the quality of the soil.  He obtained Domaine Madeloc from the Pagès family in 2002.

The vineyards of Madeloc cover a total area of 29 hectares, including 23 hectares planted within the communes of Banyuls, Cerbère, and Port-Vendres.  The plots are scattered between the sea and the mountains at altitudes between 2-450 meters above sea level. The vines are exposed to the north, south, and the east which enriches the complexity of the wines by the multitude of microclimates.  Protected from the wind, the plots planted within the valley have a very warm climate, ideal for the maturity of the Banyuls.  The plots closer to the sea have a cooler climate, ideal for the slow ripening of the grapes and balance for the Collioure.

The grape varietals planted are typical of Roussillon, however, marked by notes of the Rhone Valley.  Grenache is the majority grape used for the Banyuls “Vintage” and is blended with Grenache Gris and Carignan old vines for Banyuls “Traditional”.  The Collioure Rouge is a blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Carignan.  The Grenache Gris is one of the components of the white Banyuls.  This varietal is associated with Vermentino and Roussanne for white Collioure.

Grape/ Blend
90% Grenache and 10% Grenache Gris 

Origin
Banyuls, France

Tasting Notes
This rancio develops prune, dried fruit and gingerbread aromas. The balance between the sugar and alcohol – generally dry –offers good length with coffee and walnut notes on the finish.

Product size: 500ml