Domaine de Valcros, Banyuls Rimage 'Les Clos de Paulilles'

The terraced vineyards of Banyuls have some of the strictest Appellation laws in France, which include a complete ban on irrigation as well as prohibiting the use of tractors, so all work must be carried out by man and mule. The law also requires that the mules have to be born within the Appellation itself!

With summer pudding, dark cherry and mocha flavours (not to mention dried herbs, prunes and caramel) this delicious red dessert wine works with a raft of dishes. Blue cheese (especially Roquefort), chocolate desserts (particularly if it contains cherries or red fruits), mince pies, grilled figs, cake (again if cherries have been included) and dark chocolate - but may be not all on the same plate!