France's wild frontier

This is a big, juicy and powerful wine, not for the fainthearted. The nose packs in dark berries, spice, and wild herbs, and that rich, sunshine-drenched ripeness of the south. But press on past the heady aromas and you find a palate of admirable balance and elegance. There is nothing out of kilter here. There is surprising nuance and finesse beneath its power and brawn, with fondant tannins and a minty freshness. Its balance offers a similar appeal to that of great Châteauneuf-du-Papes, at a fraction of the price.

Tempier has stood as a preeminent domaine of Provence for decades, putting Bandol on the fine wine map. 75% Mourvèdre in the blend gives an intense, dark perfume evocative of the wild garrigue scrub, luminous skies, and sweet ripe fruit from this beautiful corner of the Mediterranean coast. 2016 is a brilliant vintage for the domaine, with wonderfully balanced wines that will evolve great complexity.

This domaine is recognised as one of the finest in the south of France, and has emerged as one of the most sought after names in the fine wine market. Its blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Counoise, Mourvèdre, and Syrah achieves a formidable concentration and intensity in this unique corner of the Languedoc. Full bodied, with the aroma of wild herbs, dark berries and spice, this will evolve magnificent complexity with time. Rightly considered among the greatest wines of France.

Over the past few decades, Gros' Noré has emerged as a top Bandol address, rubbing shoulders with its famous neighbour, Tempier. Their powerful Mourvèdre blends are rich, spicy and impressively ageworthy, and as with all great Bandols, retain a salty, herb-infused freshness. This has a deep and chewy structure, with the scent of roasted spice and a beautiful thread of acidity running through it.

Michel Chapoutier is a towering talent in the Northern Rhône, producing some of France’s greatest wines. Quick to recognise the potential in this southern corner, his investment and dedication here make for a Roussillon red of excellent value. With notes of garrigue and fresh berries on the nose, a hint of tapenade, and focussed grippy tannins, this is a charming wine from Chapoutier.