Review: Dom. Tempier 2011 Bandol Rose
- Nov 11, 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 Tempier, along with Domaine La Suffrene, make one of the best roses in Bandol. The blend is mourvedre (50%) - a strong, tannic, "meaty" grape - along with grenache (28%), cinsault (20%) and a dash of carignan (2%). The Domaine, with 38 ha under vine, has remained in the hands of the family since 1834.
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.
Most roses are advised to be consumed within a year of harvest - this Bandol has a few years under its belt but the mourvedre should ensure staying power. Compare this to the 2013 Domaine La Suffrene, another leading Bandol Rose. We picked this little beauty from Le Clos at the Dubai Airport.
The take: Very light, copper, highly transparent. A closed nose, with hints of game, peach and strawberries. On the attack, so smooth! Effervescent, with grapefruit, mandarin and strawberries and cream. The blend neatly balances acidity, bitterness, alcohol and fruit.
In closing: Smooth and structured: a strawberry and cream delight.
Rating: 8.5 out of 10.
Fact corner:
Country: France
Region: Bandol (AOC)
Producer: Domaine Tempier
Vintage: 2011
Grape: Mourvedre, grenache, cinsault, carignan
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Serving temperature: 11°
Price range: Mid-range
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