| Score: |
97 RP.
"One of the greatest producers of southern France, this Bandol estate is dedicated to producing . . . wines that are meant to gracefully endure 20-30 years of cellaring. Two wines to make reservations for are the 1990 Bandol and 1990 Bandol Cuvée Vieilles Vignes. These sensational wines are the quintessential expressions of Bandol. Neither is flattering or charming, but both are enormously constituted, massive wines that are closer to a Barolo Monfortino from the likes of Giacomo Conterno than to a more supple, user-friendly Bordeaux or Burgundy. Both of these wines will require a considerable investment in patience - at least a decade. Even more impressive than the regular cuvée is the 1990 Bandol Cuvée Vieilles Vignes, which has been made from 100% Mourvèdre (the vines average 45 years in age). This wine is the quintessential expression of Mourvèdre. Black/purple, with a huge nose of fresh earth, truffles, tree bark, licorice, Asian spices, and black fruits, it is full-bodied, massive, and thick, with unbelievable unctuosity. Extremely complex, concentrated, and intense, as well as ferociously tannic, this monster demands a decade of cellaring. It is magnificent, but patience is required. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2040. Wines of such intensity and power are rarely made today. They are the antithesis of the modern day palate longing for supple, easy to drink and understand wines." Wine Advocate #101, Oct 1995 |