I think every Rhone fan owes it to themselves to explore the Mourvedre heartland in Bandol, and what better producer to test drive than the gold standard? The second I stuck my nose in the glass, the one word I could think of was archetype, as just about any textbook definition of the varietal alludes to these pure Mourvedre pleasures that I?d always imagined but hardly ever experienced. The holy grail of this varietal seemed to come out and speak to me w/ each scent, and every next sip would unlock the mystery a touch further. Opaque, brooding sensations of cardamom, black licorice, grilled steak, fig, blackberry liqueur and pepper give way to a sinister, spicy and savory palate experience that could only come from one grape, Mr. Mourvedre. He that likes his face in the sun and feet in the water, and in Bandol finds sanctuary. Pure, gorgeous Mourvedre complexities flex their sinew along the ride, but the density of the wine is channeled by such a brisk, driven persona that composes all its power w/ ease. I can still remember the lingering graphite note of this wine in an almost haunting fashion. With all this talk of price in an industry as expansive as wine, I can'thelp but feel at ease when I can experience one of wine?s zeniths at such a reasonable fare. Visit my website: Unidentified Appellation

Fully mature but lots of life ahead; lovely nose; lovely spicy complexity yet elegant; reminiscent of a fine Cote Rotie; long complex finish.

Stinky feet, earth, coffee, chocolate, grilled meat, stewed plum and fig. Both elegant and rustic on the palate.

Med.-full color w/ amber edge; nose shows good black fruit & spice but is still a bit restrained and hard; very good intensity on the palate; vigorous, complex, good definition w/high notes; not flabby or gamey. Delicious but still young.

A captivating wine with an elegant palate and a rustic soul. Perfumed and sinewy at the same time. Wonderful to experience. Ready now, but has the stuffing to last for quite a while longer.

Consistent notes. Med.-full color w/ amber edge; nose shows good black fruit & spice but is still a bit restrained and hard; very good intensity on the palate; vigorous, complex, good definition w/high notes; not flabby or gamy. Delicious but will develop further.

I only wish I had another bottle. Rustic and regal all at the same time. Paired very well with my savory and smokey cassoulet.

This ros? is a reference point for which all other serious ros?s aspire. An icon, year in and year out this wine delivers the goods. Light salmon colored wine with clear, bright aromas of seashells, light strawberry, and spice. Perfectly balanced with lengthy fruit flavors overlain with refreshing acidity. Drink now.

corked

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Delightful. Still well balanced and maintaining a hint of strawberry

Had never ordered or bought a Rose. So when I saw Tempier on the wine list at Joe's, I figured it would be a good example. I have no means of comparison, but I was very favorably impressed. Extremely silky and easy to quaff. No hint of tannin or acid. Not big, or forward, but so smooth and easy to drink that I can see buying this by the case and enjoying it on the deck this summer.

Had never ordered or bought a Rose. So when I saw Tempier on the wine list at Joe's, I figured it would be a good example. I have no means of comparison, but I was very favorably impressed. Extremely silky and easy to quaff. No hint of tannin or acid. Not big, or forward, but so smooth and easy to drink that I can see buying this by the case and enjoying it on the deck this summer.

Light pink. Watermelon, apple, apricot, orange peel, somewhat oxidized. Strong acidity that is well balanced with alcohol. Not sprightly, but palate cleansing.

Great summer drink

Holy amazing wow! Rustic, smooth, lush and rich. Black pepper on the finish.

Very good. Some more time in bottle should even make it better.

Good. A little sharp and warm. An hours worth of air didn't help much. Visit my website: Vinotrip