This was my first time trying a Bandol and I liked it quite a bit. At first, I was put off by the nose and palate. However, as I gave it more time, the wine opened up and it grew on me. I understand why there is a cult following of Bandol wines. This particular wine was 97% Mourvedre. It had a deep, very opaque purple-ish color. On the nose the wine was very aromatic. In particular, I got some dark fruits (particularly blueberry), some smoked meat, maybe some savory herbs, wet earth, some metallic (iron kept coming to mind), and floral quality (maybe lavender). The palate was dry, medium body, and had some smooth acidity (lots of acidity). The palate had some black pepper, dark fruits (blueberry like the nose), and earth. It also had the metallic component that I described on the nose, and it was bitter at the beginning (this slowly went away as it breathed). After 24 hours open, the bitterness completely went away and gave way to a fruiter/meatier wine. This is the kind of wine that warms you up during a cold winter day. The tannins on this wine were quite strong and round. There was a good balance. This wine would benefit by being paired with food. I am also confident that this wine could age very well. Probably another 3-5 years in the cellar would do it some good and would allow it to mellow out. Overall, this wine had a good balance and I would not hesitate to buy more.
Anthony SanfordWine has become a passion. Join me as I develop my understanding and love for wine. Archives
January 2016
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