Description

A family run estate that is based in the village of La Cadiere d’Azure, next to Pibarnon. They sold their fruit to Pibarnon and others until 97 vintage. Very typical clay-limestone terroir of Bandol. Roughly 85% Mourvedre, with some Grenache and a touch of Cinsault. De-stemmed, all the wine is aged in large foudre.

All the richness and bold characters of Bandol that makes it just one of the greatest wine places on earth. Starting from the top there is a hint of Mourvedre funk but it is quickly drowned by red and voluminous red and blue fruits with a sparkle of blackberry very evident. In fact it makes me think of what it would be like to lie face down in a field of dirt that is growing wild lavender and blackberries. The plushness of the palate is so engrossing, there is great structure but really it the fruit density that makes this wine such a hit. Aging? Dear lord yes! Give it another 5 to 10 before you pull another cork… although it is seriously delicious now. Match it with a boeuf bourguignon or something of similar richness and weight.

Bandol

The wines of Bandol are something special. Tannic red, saline rosé and surprisingly delicate whites always impress an eager palate. This particular patch of Provence has more than its fair share of great producers and is hard to find only by the fact that the wines tend to sell out rather quickly.

Mataro

Also known as Mourvedre in France and Monastrell in Spain. It is known for making a muscular, tannic, meaty, savoury wine. It is often the backbone of a blend but in places like Alicante, Jumilla and Yecla it is the major, if not only variety in the red wine. Aging can vary depending on winemaker influence.