Review: Dom. La Suffrene 2013 Cuvee Lea Rose
- vinterest
- Oct 3, 2014
- 1 min read
The low-down: Bandol is an AOC in south-east Provence known for its rugged cliffs and picturesque coastal town. Domaine La Suffrene make one of the best roses in Bandol. The blend is mourvedre (40%) - a strong, tannic, "meaty" grape - along with cinsault (30%), grenache (20%) and, unlike many of its peers, carignan (10%). Outside of Bandol there aren't many places that grow mourvedre well - the terroir is a unique mix of elevation, sun, sea air and yet with little precipitation.
Compare this to the 2011 Domaine Tempier, another leading Bandol Rose.
The take: On appearance a transparent and very light copper. Some legs for a rose but they run quickly. On the nose, grapefruit, orange, banana and honey. On the attack, rich, fleshy and full bodied. This evolves into strawberries and cream and finishes with a peppery bite. For my drinking partner A it is quite alcoholic.
In closing: Iron first in a velvet glove. Strength and a full-body neatly balanced by a smooth creaminess.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Fact corner:
Country: France
Region: Bandol (AOC)
Producer: Domaine La Suffrene
Vintage: 2013
Grape: Mourvedre, cinsault, grenache, carignan
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Serving temperature: 12°
Price range: Mid-range
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