This wine is made by the brilliant Libourne/St.-Emilion doctor and château owner, Dr. Alain Raynaud. This is his first venture in southern France, and the results are very impressive. This offering is personally made by Dr. Raynaud from vineyards owned by Cave de l'Abbé Rous. As of May, 2004, there is no American importer, probably because Banyuls is not a household name for most American wine consumers, which is a shame. A brilliant example of Banyuls, this 18,000 bottle cuvée was produced from 25-60-year old Grenache vines. It possesses lofty alcohol and unobtrusive residual sweetness, but none of the Amarone-like, late harvest character found in many Banyuls. These wines are natural accompaniments to chocolate desserts. This dense ruby/purple-colored 2002 boasts an extraordinary perfume of creosote/charcoal, blackberries, blueberries, fennel, and licorice. Extremely full-bodied with rich, concentrated fruit, remarkable freshness, elegance, and finesse, and a finish that lasts for more than 60 seconds, this vibrant offering reveals neither heaviness nor oxidation.