Gérard Bertrand Legend Vintage 1951 Banyuls (75cl, 17%)

This is a 1951 Banyuls from Gérard Bertrand, in a 75cl bottle at 17% vol. The appellation covers 617 hectares along the Côte Vermeille, between Collioure, Port-Vendres, Banyuls and Cerbère. The vines grow on grey schist, on steep slopes and narrow terraces held by low walls facing the sea. The poor soils encourage deep rooting. Dried raspberry and red plum dominate the nose and palate, with sweet mulled spice, clove-pricked orange rind, pepper, walnut skin and bittersweet cocoa. It is full and rich but lively, with medium acidity and a zippy finish. Serve at 16°C with a chocolate or citrus dessert.