2015 Bandol Rose

Pale orange. Lively, expansive citrus pith and red currant aromas are complemented by suggestions of chalky minerals and white flowers. Sappy, concentrated and precise, offering palate-staining red berry and blood orange flavors and a hint of spicy white pepper. Shows excellent thrust and persistence on the mineral-driven finish, which emphatically echoes the floral and citrus fruit qualities. I'm impressed by the way this wine balances the opulence of the vintage with vivacity and I suspect it will reward at least another eight or so years of patience -- standard behavior for this bottling, which ages more like a red wine than a pink one.

Well, this is never going to be given away. See Tempier – 30 year-old rosé for some background. Standard issue pale salmon pink. Much earthier, more complex and nuanced nose than other Provençal pinks. Spreads pungently all across the palate and there is not the merest hint of fermentation aromas. Very long. Truly, smokily, herbily outstanding. A proper wine! Already broachable with excellent substance. This will surely last many a long year. (JR)