Cork partly decomposed on opening. Deep mahogany colour, lots of sediment. Nose of slightly burnt cherry pie served with coffee and tea, morphing to raisins and dates but still retaining the classic Gruaud Larose green stemminess. On the palate one tastes sour cherries and cassis, developing to prunes with some time. Tannins and acidity still medium but the fruit is thinning. Should have drank this 2 to 3 years ago.
A beautiful wine made from a great producer in a ripe vintage. Generous notes of red plum and black cherries underlined by notes of violet and pencil shavings. Savoury and crunchy with an acidity that makes you crave some food. A natural with pâté, charcuterie, rabbit or steak tartare. Well done!
Great depth of flavours with complex notes of black pepper, black plum, smoked meat and seductive violet aromas balanced by fresh acidity. Firm yet fine tannins with a persistent finish. Charming now, especially when served with game meat. However, has the structure to keep on improving over the next 6 to 8 years.
Tasted in February, when no longer “Nouveau.” Deeply coloured pinkish-purple wine comes in a colourful flower-decorated bottle. Big nose of sweet hard strawberry candies, banana and sweet tea. On the palate tastes like fruity (raspberry, strawberry) tea, invites quaffing. Serve cool, drink soon.
Tasted in February, when no longer “Nouveau.” Clear, medium-deep pink-purple candy colour. Medium strength nose, like a banana coated in red candy-apple coating, also hints of sugary cake icing. Light-bodied with mouth-watering bright acidity, tasting of mashed berries, especially raspberries. Serve cool, drink immediately.
Clear very deep garnet. Aroma of maraschino cherry, milk chocolate and a bit of coconut (quite like a Cherry Blossom chocolate bar — do they still make those?). High acidity and still-prominent tannins, but this is mature, full-bodied and robust, tasting of raisins and cherries. Good value. Drink now.
This Bandol is serious business and definitely deserves full attention when drinking it. Medium body with juicy acidity and complex aromas of fennel, sour cherries, blood orange and a hint of melon. Tempier has a reputation for making Rosés which improve with age. I highly recommend buying a few bottles and waiting 2 to 5 years before you open them. They transform into complex wines that are jewels to pair with food.