Domaine TEMPIER (Bandol) -- 2022 Single Vineyard Wines Tasted from Bottle
The great wines just keep arriving from what most qualified observers consider Bandol’s greatest estate (over very tough competition). The regularity with which great wines are turned out is astonishing, and at prices that are a fraction of many other great wines of comparable quality. My notes on the 2021s and the 2022 cuvée Lulu et Lucien (version sold in France, which in recent years has been different from the version sold in the United States) are here. My notes on the 2020s and 2019s are here.
2022 Bandol La Migoua
Is this the best La Migoua I’ve ever had? (And I’ve had every one ever released to the public.) Quite possibly — I certainly can’t think of another that has impressed me this much, even though it is usually my favorite of the Tempier reds. The unmatchable La Migoua texture underscores the dark plum fruits and round tannins. You can drink this with great admiration now, and I expect in 30-40 years, it’ll still be impressing. 50% Mourvèdre, 20% Grenache, 26% Cinsault, 4% Syrah. Cork closure. 14.5% stated alcohol. Lot LR 22 03. 96/A+
2022 Bandol La Tourtine
This is a version of La Tourtine that is unusually open at this early stage in its development. The wine is firm and voluptuous with red fruits. There’s tremendous depth here and this promises to be something special for those who can hold it 10-15 years. 80% Mourvèdre, 10% Grenache, 10% Cinsault. Cork closure. 14.5% stated alcohol. Lot LR 22 01. 95/A+
2022 Bandol Cabassaou
The rare Cabassaou is the most tannic and backward of the group, unsurprisingly as it is comprised 95% of Mourvèdre (and 4% Syrah, 1% Cinsault). The the incredible depth, concentration, intensity, and clarity of the dark fruits makes for an amazing combination for those willing to hold the wine for 10-15 years. Cork closure. 14.5% stated alcohol. Lot LR 22 02. 97/A+
A note on the alcohols: I generally am not fond of alcohols above 14%, but certain grapes, notably Mourvèdre and Nebbiolo often do quite well at alcohols around 14.5%.