(2022) From the powerful wine capital of Provence, Bandol, a blend of Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache and Mourvèdre, aged in large oak foudres for 18 months. Robust, cherry and plum-scented aromas, but quite polished too, a suggestion of glossiness even, though the sweet, spicy depth dominates. The palate has a gorgeous sweetness, almost musky, with a perfume and touch of blackcurrant jam, blueberry and plenty of depth and concentration. The oak supports, the tannins are nicely rustic and grippy and the finish balanced.
(2013) 13%, Cork. Robust, powerful, lightly leafy and rhubarby stuff - ramping up the Provence character to 11/10. On the palate quite full-flavoured indeed, with plenty of orange and cranberry brightness and sweet/sour concentration, and a lovely long finish with shimmering, clean acidity.
(2011) Mourvèdre, Cinsault and a touch of Grenache. Quite different, with a darker, almost chocolate edged note to the fruit, and a mellow earthiness. The palate has a lean juiciness; there's a cool apple fruit and a pithy grapefruit quality. It is perhaps fuller, richer and more structured, but less refined. Lots of grip and fruit.
(2011) Mourvèdre 85%, Grenache, Syrah, Has a gamey, bloody aspect to the nose with a richness to the bramble and earthy sweet fruit. The palate is bone dry, with a lean, leathery, sinewy aspect, perhaps lacking a little flesh when tasted on its own, but has lovely spice and freshness, and yes good sweet fruit in the finish.