2021 Domaine Tempier Bandol ‘Lulu & Lucien’, Bandol

The Peyraud family is legendary in Bandol, the patriarch, Lucien, was responsible for replanting Mourvèdre in Bandol in the 30s-40s while most vignerons were replanting their vineyards with higher-yielding varietals. Mourvèdre is Bandol and Bandol is Mourvèdre, the two are intimately linked for good reasons. Nowadays it is a requirement to have a minimum of 50% of the grape in any red made under the Bandol appellation. Domaine Tempier owns 38 hectares of high-quality vineyards planted in what looks like a big amphitheatre, and steep terraces which are ideal for making rich and long-lived wines in this beautiful appellation.   Why do we like it? Lulu Peyraud was the joy of Domaine Tempier and unfortunately she passed away in 2020 at the age of 103 years old. To express their gratitude to Lulu & Lucien, the family has decided to rename their basic « Classic » cuvée:  “Lulu & Lucien”  starting with that vintage. This cuvée is a benchmark in Bandol. Made using 75% Mourvedre, 14% Grenache, 9% Cinsault and 2% Carignan. It is a marvellous wine showing great concentration while being fresh and youthful with a deep colour and a nose that takes you directly to the region. Full of Provencal herbs and garrigue, it’s elegantly fruited with blackberry, dark cherry and plum and a touch of bay leaf, thyme and black olive. The tannins are ripe but sleek and velvety.    Grape           75% Mourvèdre, 14% Grenache, 9% Cinsault & 2% Carignan Country        France                               Region          Provence                   Vintage         2021