Domaine Tempier Bandol Rosé 2022
Bandol is a small appellation on the Mediterranean, granted AOC status in 1941. For centuries it has produced some of the longest-lived wines in France, using primarily the Mourvedre grape. Wines from this region have unique aromatic properties which many claim come from the dry Provencal herbs which cover the hillsides: thyme, savory, rosemary, wild mint and fennel.
Domaine Tempier's rosé, considered to by many to be the finest in France, is fuller and creamier on the palate and shows dimensions not often found in rosé. Perhaps the addition of young Mourvedre is responsible, or the Peyraud's allowance for the wine to follow its natural inclination and complete malolactic fermentation.
The Bandol Tempier Rosé offers a unique blend of complexity and freshness. It has a fine structure, with no tannin. The high-quality care given to the vines and the diversity of the terroirs* produce a flavorful intensity and a strong typicity.
Composition: Mourvèdre (~ 50%) with Grenache and Cinsault
Average age of the vines: 20 years
Vinification: Pellicular maceration or direct pressing, then the juice is allowed to settle at a low temperature. Fermentation in stainless steel or concrete vats.
Aging: 6 – 8 months before being bottled.
Conservation : 1 – 5 years. However it may be kept much longer as it will take on flavors of candied citrus fruit, melon and rose petal.
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Varietal Composition | 55% Mourvèdre, 25% Grenache, 20% Cinsault |
| Appellation | Bandol |
| Designation | AOC |
| Alcohol | 13.50% |
| Volume | 750 ml |
| Country of Origin | FRANCE |
| State of Origin | N/A |
| Artificially Carbonated | No |
| Sparkling Wine | No |
Not included in the blind tasting at the local syndicat, Tempier's 2021 Bandol Rose nevertheless looked good when I tasted it at the estate. It's a very fine, elegant example of Bandol rosé, with notes of passion fruit and pink grapefruit leading the way in a tightly knit, medium-bodied package that adds promising hints of white peach and anise on the lingering finish. - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 93 pts
Domaine Tempier has always been respectful and faithful to mother nature. The entire farming process is aligned to the rhythm of the seasons and the lunar calendar. This fidelity to the pioneering spirit is kept alive today both in the vineyards and in the cellar. Practicing organic farming.
