Domaine du Traginer — Banyuls/Collioure
In Catalonia, where the Pyrenees plunge down into the
Mediterranean, the dramatically steep shistous slopes above
Banyuls-sur-Mer are planted to Grenache Noir and Gris along with Syrah,
Mourvèdre, Carignan & Muscat. The vineyards are terraced
with dry shale and are drained by a system of canals called “Peus de
Gall.” Jean-François Deu
cultivates 9 hectares among these remarkable slopes that are now
certified 'organic'. Much of the cultivation is done with the aid of
the last mule in the Cru, guided by his “Traginer,” as mule-skinners
are called in Catalan.
Banyuls Blanc 2004 — “A very rare white Banyuls, a lightly fortified vin doux naturel from a region near the Spanish border. The nose [of the 1999] is soft yet sumptuous with ripe white melon, vanilla-banana custard and anise notes. Quite full bodied, smooth, thick and sweet on the palate. Excellent length.” Rating 92/Value*** (David Lawrason, Wine Access).
Banyuls Tradition 1998 (Grenache noir: 50%, Grenache gris: 30% Carignan noir: 10%, Muscat d'Alexandre: 10%)
True, traditional Banyuls, the brick red colour showing slight ambering on the edges, wonderful fauvre nose of toffee, cocoa, figs and dried fruits underlayed with earthy mushrooms, truffles, spice and leather; full and sweet in mouth where the spice and vanilla continue, soft but very long finish with chocolate, caramel and fruits linger on. (JPO, October 2005)
Collioure “Cuvée d'Octobre” 2000 — 50% Grenache, 20% Carignan, 20% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah create this assemblage which ages 12 months in barriques. “This oak-raised cuvée is exemplary: the aromas of ripe fruits and spicy notes are highlighted by touches of delicate oak. In the mouth, the fine balance favours fleshy sensations and persistance.” Three Stars (Le Guide Hachette des vins, 2003).