Domaine Tempier, located in the heart of the Bandol appellation, was established by the Tempier family in 1834. The domaine won its first gold medal in 1885 and is one of the few 19th-century family-run wine estates that has stayed true to its past.

According to historians, Bandol’s first vines were planted around since 600 BC and the Romans exported the local wines from Bandol harbor. On 11 November 1941, Bandol was granted AOC (Appellation d’Origine Controlee) status.

Domaine Tempier’s 38 hectares are spread over several parcels facing the sea on steep, sun-drenched slopes. It is made up of a patchwork of vineyards, the main ones being La Migoua in Le Beausset-Vieux and La Tourtine and Cabassaou in Le Castellet, as well as the house in Le Plan du Castellet. The Mourvedre grape thrives on the Bandol terroir of rocky landscapes and hundred-year-old terraces. It is combined with Grenache to give the wine body and fruit, and with Cinsault which provides refinement and balance. The dark-colored Mourvedre gives the Bandol red wines their structure and elegance as well as their capacity to age well.

Behold the 2019 Domaine Tempier Bandol la Tourtine, a captivating red wine that hails from the esteemed region of Bandol in Provence, France. This wine is a proprietary blend, carefully crafted by the renowned producer Domaine Tempier, known for their commitment to excellence and tradition.

In the glass, this wine showcases a deep and alluring red color that hints at its complexity and depth. The nose is a symphony of aromas, with dark fruit taking center stage. Ripe blackberries and plums mingle with subtle notes of cherries, creating a luscious and enticing bouquet. As you delve deeper, intricate layers of dried spice nuances emerge, revealing hints of allspice and clove. These complexities add a touch of sophistication to the wine, elevating it to new heights.

On the palate, the 2019 Domaine Tempier Bandol la Tourtine is medium to full-bodied, enveloping your senses with its rich and velvety texture. The dark fruit flavors persist, offering a harmonious blend of ripe blackberries, blackcurrants, and a touch of juicy raspberries. The intense fruit profile is beautifully balanced by the well-integrated tannins, granting the wine a structured framework and ensuring a long and satisfying finish.

Renowned wine critic Joe Czerwinski of Robert Parker's Wine Advocate bestowed an impressive score of 94+ points upon this exceptional vintage. Czerwinski praises the wine for its power and intensity, noting its dark fruit dominance and complex spice nuances. This accolade only further solidifies the 2019 Domaine Tempier Bandol la Tourtine as a true gem in the world of red wines.

To fully appreciate the splendor of this wine, I recommend pairing it with robust dishes such as grilled lamb chops or braised beef short ribs. Allow the wine to breathe for a moment before indulging in its opulent flavors, and savor each sip as it reveals its intricacies.

With its impeccable craftsmanship, undeniable charm, and remarkable depth, the 2019 Domaine Tempier Bandol la Tourtine is a must-have for any wine enthusiast seeking a truly extraordinary experience.