Bandol Bliss! Saturday Tasting and Sale

On Saturday, May 15, 2010, from 1PM – 4PM, Weygandt Wines welcomes you to a tasting of the wines of Bandol.

DOMAINE LA BASTIDE BLANCHE
In the early ’70s Michel and Louis Bronzo (the latter on the board of the INAO) acquired the property of the Bastide Blanche, with an eye to producing from appellation Bandol wines the equal of more famous appellations like Chateauneuf. Their painstaking efforts were rewarded in 1993 when vintage conditions created the benchmark year to put Bandol in general and Bastide-Blanche, in particular, on the map of top producers in France. They have various cuvees, depending on the vintage, but always about 75% Mourvedre as a minimum, up to 100% Mourvedre for the Cuvee Fontanieu from a parcel of that name near the Mediterranean. Also, common each year to their success are their very low yields, never more than 34 or 35 hl/ha, and simply impeccable cellar conditions and attention. This shows in the pure, well-delineated fruit, that has become a hallmark of Bastide-Blanche. They also make a delightful Rosé, from predominantly Mourvedre, with Grenache and Cinsault. And also produce another rosé from a separate property, Chateau des Baumelles. The Lineup:

Domaine La Bastide Blanche Bandol Blanc 2008, Regularly $26.99, On Sale $22.94/bottle – Provence, France – 45% Clairette, 35% Ugni Blanc, 15% Bourboulenc, 5% Sauvignon Blanc – 13% abv – Organic – A fruity style, with focused flavors of peach, Golden Delicious apple and pear. Medium-bodied, with a zesty, spice-filled finish that features touches of cream. Drink now. 25 cases imported. – Rated 88 Points, Wine Spectator

Chateau des Baumelles Bandol Rosé 2009, Regularly $22.99, On Sale $19.54/bottle – Provence, France – 36% Cinsault, 34% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre – 13.5% abv – Organic

Domaine La Bastide Blanche Bandol Rosé 2009, Regularly $22.99, On Sale $19.54/bottle – Provence, France – 70% Mourvedre, 22% Cinsault, 8% Grenache – 13.5% abv – Organic

Domaine La Bastide Blanche Bandol 2006, Regularly $22.99, On Sale $19.54/bottle – Provence, France – 74% Mourvedre, 22% Grenache, 3% Syrah, 1% Carignan – 14.5% abv – Organic - A powerful red, with intense red and dark fruit flavors, including fig, dark plum and raspberry. Formidable tannins and acidity support the finish, which is infused with notes of baker’s chocolate and black olive. Best from 2011 through 2015. 400 cases imported. – Rated 92 Points, Wine Spectator

Domaine La Bastide Blanche Bandol Cuvee Estagnol 2006, Regularly $29.99, On Sale $25.49/bottle – Provence, France – 94% Mourvedre, 6% Grenache – 14% abv – Organic - Plush and rich, with dense flavors of dark cherry, fig, licorice and dark chocolate. The powerful finish lingers with notes of mocha, smoke and roast beef. Needs time. Best from 2010 through 2014. 150 cases imported. – Rated 92 Points, Wine Spectator

Domaine La Bastide Blanche Bandol Cuvee Fontanieu 2005, Regularly $29.99, On Sale $25.49/bottle – Provence, France – 94% Mourvèdre, 6% Grenache – 13.5% abv – Organic - Powerful and complex nose spices, liquorice and chive mix with fruit notes of prunes and blackberries. The mouth is powerful, dense, developing finally spice notes. This wine will accompany well grilled or roasted meats and wild game.

Above Wines On Sale Through Saturday, May 15, 2010 or until supplies last.