February 9, 2012 – Domaine Tempier Tasting, Lower Falls Wine, Newton, MA
A belated thanks to the staff of Lower Falls Wine for hosting this fun tasting last Thursday. Although I have enjoyed Tempier's Rosé and red "Cuvée Classique" before, this event gave me an opportunity to try two of their single-vineyard Bandols, as well as perhaps the most interesting Provencal white I have had thus far.
I also learned about how Domaine Tempier was the driving force behind the Bandol AOC, thereby helping to ensure the reputation of Mourvèdre as a grape capable of producing great, classic wines.
2009 Bandol Blanc
60% Clairette, 18% Ugni Blanc, 19% Bourboulenc, and 3% Marsanne. Moderately full-bodied, fleshy, well balanced, with moderate acidity; shows notes of white fruits, peaches, minerals, and darker plums, with a fine hint of salinity. Very good/excellent; certainly above the “pleasant” norm of most Provencal whites.
2004 Bandol "Cuvée Classique"
75% Mourvèdre, 14% Grenache, 9% Cinsault, and 2% Carignan. Earthy/spicy nose. Full-bodied, well balanced, with good underlying acidity; tannins have softened somewhat, but are not yet resolved. Shows notes of dark berries, game, coffee, blood, and iron. Excellent.
2008 Bandol La Migoua
50% Mourvèdre, 26% Cinsault, 20% Grenache, and 4% Syrah. Pretty closed on the nose; some light earthiness. Full-bodied, well balanced, tight, with straighter tannins; shows dark berry, cherry, and lightly meaty notes. Should be excellent with more time.
2008 Bandol La Tourtine
80% Mourvèdre, 10% Grenache, and 10% Cinsault. Earthy/coffee-scented nose. Full-bodied, well balanced; despite the firmer tannins, it is more open right now than the preceding wine. Very dry, with dark berry and cherry flavors. Excellent.