Provence

2019 Bandol Cabassaou, Domaine Tempier Red | Still | 14.5%

Domaine Tempier sit at the pinacle of the small but highly-prized Bandol appellation in Provence, famous for its long-lived Mourvèdre wines. The small parcel of Cabassaou sits below Tourtine and is protected from the Mistral winds. Tiny yields produce an intense, tight wine with massive ageing potential.

Young: 2026 - 2045

2019 Bandol Rouge, Domaine du Gros' Noré Dry | Red | Still | 15%

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 2019 has such an intense aroma of wild berry fruit and savoury garrigue herbs. There is a refined focus on the palate, with its grippy little tannins thanks to the quality of Mourvèdre fruit in the blend. These are so well proportioned it gives it a noble astringency along the finish which is filled out with the abundant fruit. There are layers of tobacco and spice, with a touch of liquorice. It is both earthy and elegant, full of character, and with plenty of depth to evolve over the years.

Ready: 2022 - 2035