Château Vannières

1998 Bandol Rouge

• Mourvèdre-led Bandol from clay and limestone at La Cadière-d'Azur, 28 years from vintage.
• Long fermentation with daily punch-downs, then 22 months in foudres and French oak barrels.
• Near the top of the family's 4 to 40 year window; serve at 16 to 18°C.

Grape varieties

Mourvèdre in very high proportion 95%, Grenache 5%

Serving temperature

16° to 18° C

Cellaring

Depending on your personal taste, between 4 and 40 years

Winemaking

Hand harvested, only in small crates to prevent oxidation. Made through long vinifications of 30 to 35 days with daily punch-downs, which bring structure and ageing potential.

Aged in foudres and French oak barrels for 22 months.

Tasting Notes

Garnet with a bricking rim. The nose shows dried black fruit, leather, tobacco and dried herbs, with garrigue and undergrowth. The palate is savoury and layered, firm tannins now softened, with fine acidity carrying the fruit through a long, earthy, spiced finish. Drink now to 2030.

Distributed in Australia by Principal Wine.