Chateau de Pibarnon Bandol Blanc 2021
From North Berkeley Imports:
Château de Pibarnon sets the standard for greatness not only in Bandol but also for wines the world over. Like fine Barolo, Pibarnon Bandol is an eternal wine, growing ever more elegant and supple with time; and like grand cru Burgundy, the depth and complexity of Pibarnon Bandol is a singular, captivating experience.
With its perch at the highest point in the appellation, its impeccable terroir and unforgettable amphitheatre of vines, Pibarnon unquestionably crafts the finest Mourvèdre-based wines in Bandol. This breathtaking yet rugged region is exceptionally suited to showcasing the power and beauty of this southern red grape.
Bandol was no more than a backwater when Catherine and Henri de Saint Victor purchased Pibarnon in the late 1970s. Recognizing the region’s potential, however, the visionary couple worked tirelessly for some 30 years, landscaping and crafting ever better wines. By the 1990s, Pibarnon was making the region’s top reds, a status today maintained under their son, Eric de Saint Victor. Henri passed away in 2013.
The 2021 white is precise, ethereal and floral, with a delicate backbone, yet full of energy. An immediate sensation of purity and fine balance. This unique and southern wine rivals its cousins from the north in freshness, without searching for excess aromas but rather a luminous energy that we sometimes find in whites from the coast. We are pleasantly surprised by its structure, but its floral and delicate elegance adds a precise, pure and crystalline touch. One of the best wines we have made in recent years.
This white goes best with langoustines, scallops and lobster. A white-fleshed noble fish would pair perfectly, with a salt crust, cooked in white butter or simply grilled with wild fennel.
Direct pressing and cold settling.
Vinification in vats, traditional method and slow fermentation.
Ageing in stainless steel vats to preserve the brilliance, purity and freshness.
The 50-hectare Chateau de Pibarnon is truly one of the great estates of the south of France. Founded in 1977 by Comte Henri de Victor, who has painstakingly restored the estate to it's original glory, the domaine is known as the 'Petrus of Provence' and with good reason as the wines are of the very highest quality. The Bandol Blanc is a creamy blend of Marsanne, Clairette, Bourboulenc and Ugni Blanc. Superb with fish and seafood dishes.
A bright, pale yellow in colour. An intense nose of tropical stone fruit aromas with a hint of white flowers. Dry and pleasantly tart on the palate with refreshing acidity and showing a touch of spice, the finish is ripe and lengthy.
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Varietal Composition | Clairette (50%)
Bourboulenc (30%)
Mixed grapes (20%) |
| Appellation | Bandol |
| Designation | AOC |
| Alcohol | 14.50% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Country of Origin | FRANCE |
| State of Origin | N/A |
| Artificially Carbonated | No |
| Sparkling Wine | No |
Pibarnon sits at the highest point in the Bandol appellation (more than 900 feet above sea level) and occupies its own micro-climate. The influence of the Mediterranean to the south as well as the estate’s altitude keeps the southern temperatures moderate, allowing Mourvèdre the long growing season it requires to reach optimal ripeness.
The estate’s unique and rare soils, called Trias, are mineral-rich and retain water even in the driest years; sub-soils are a blue clay (found also at Château d’Yquem and Petrus) which contribute to the wines’ refined aromas and smooth texture.
The estate vineyards grow in a natural amphitheater, which not only protects vines from strong winds but also provides a dramatic backdrop for one of Bandol’s most legendary estates.
Vines are cared for according to organic principles; as of the 2019 vintage, the estate is officially certified. Harvest is always by hand, considering the steep, terraced terrain. Wines are fermented on indigenous yeasts and aged exclusively in a combination of new and older French oak casks and barrels.
