2012 Bandol Classique

The 2012 Bandol Cuvée Classique is a blend of parcels on limestone and sandy marl soils, comprising three-quarters Mourvèdre, the remainder Grenache and Cinsault with a seasoning of Syrah and Carignan. It was fermented in concrete tanks and aged for a minimum of 18 months in large old oak casks. Quite deep in hue, it has a quintessential Bandol bouquet: mulberry, wild heather and a scintilla of old medicine cabinet, one that hasn’t been opened for a couple of years. Later, there are hints of sloe, pain d’épices and hung game. The palate is beautifully balanced, with real depth and roundness, the acidity keeping it on its toes. Again, there is a very subtle medicinal touch that gives away Mourvèdre. This fans out in assured fashion towards the savoury finish, its underlying sapidity asking you, “More?” This is a pertinent reminder of great Bandol, and I can see it motoring along nicely for another two decades.