‘In Bandol, no other winery rivals the influence of Domaine Tempier in defining the identity of the appellation.’ – Wine Spectator
Bandol Rouge is one of the world’s greatest crossover wines. Its ‘New World-esque’ power is perfectly tempered by the nuanced, earthy and savoury characteristics which are decidedly Old World. Thanks to their limestone soils, Bandol’s red wines have a distinct freshness and fine structure, appealing to those who love the classically styled wines of the Rhône.
Domaine Tempier, owned by the iconic Peyraud family, is a true grand cru de Provence. Lucien and his wife Lucie (Lulu) were instrumental in establishing Bandol as its own AOC; granted in 1941. Alongside the famous Bandol Rosé, which sells out every year upon release, Mourvèdre finds its truest expression in their rare and long-ageing Bandol Rouge.
The 2017 Cuvée Classique Bandol Rouge is a Mourvèdre-dominated blend with Grenache, Cinsault and Carignan. It celebrates the 100th birthday of Lucie ‘Lulu’ Peyraud, the matriarch and much-loved doyenne of Tempier, with the addition of ‘pour Lulu’ in red on the label. Lulu credited her long life to drinking red wine, Champagne and 50 swings a day on the swing in the backyard (as seen embellished on the label).
We have a handful of the Bandol Rosé and Bandol Blanc left, so order now to avoid disappointment. Tempier’s Bandol Rosé 2019 has developed a cult following. Their Mourvèdre-based, fresh and pure-fruited, yet savoury spiced, finely structured rosé offers near-unparalleled longevity. Finally, only accounting for 3% of their production, is Tempier’s Bandol Blanc. While super scarce, it is one of the great wines of Provence. Based on Clairette Blanche, it is fine, salty and aromatic with both texture and richness.
It is with great sadness that we announce that Lulu passed away last week on 7 October – two months shy of her 103rd birthday. ‘Her contributions were so huge: Provençal lifestyle, cooking, welcoming feeling, etc. And, of course, joie de vivre,’ Daniel Ravier, Domaine Tempier’s winemaker, wrote in an email to Wine Spectator, ‘it is hard to describe what her influence was, but I hope the wines of Domaine Tempier reflect her.’ We uncorked a bottle and raised a glass to the wonderful woman, who with wine, food and a lot of laughter, changed people’s lives for the better.
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