Al Tragou Rancio Très Vieux 1985

Wine: Al Tragou Rancio Très Vieux 1985

Winery: Domaine Vial Magnères
Appellation: A.O.C. Banyuls (France)
Varietals: 95% Grenache Noir, Grenache Gris, and Grenache Blanc; 5% Carignan
ABV: 20%

Winemaking
Hand-harvested from overripe grapes. The wine underwent an extensive aging period of at least 20 years in oak barrels. Limited production of 2,000 bottles.

 

Tasting Notes

 

Appearance: Very dark orange with a reddish tint; golden and amber highlights, slightly cloudy.

 

Nose: Rich in aromas and displaying strong typicity of an aged rancio. Notes of cigar tobacco leaf, pickled green walnuts, and bitter almonds emerge, followed by raisined fruit (figs, carob, Nakhla dates, raisins, macerated plums). It is supported by a backdrop of toasted cocoa and high-quality solera nuances. It continuously gains power and expression as it breathes.

 

Palate: The entry is striking: unctuous and ultra-concentrated, so dense it could be "cut with a knife." Highly savory, with a liqueur-like note that carries dried fruits, orange marmalade, bitter cocoa, and black tea. Never cloying; instead, it is vibrant and backed by strong acidity. Impressive and addictive, featuring warm, unctuous tannins and an endless finish. A fabulous rancio that effortlessly paired with a selection of Belgian chocolates and practically begged for a fine cigar. It requires more time in the bottle to soften. Another excellent vintage of Al Tragou.

 

Personal Score: 93
Tasting Group Score: 93