At a glance

Producer

Domaine Tempier

Region

Bandol, Provence, France

Grape variety

Mourvèdre-based blend (primarily Mourvèdre with Grenache and Cinsault)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70

Tasting profile

Ripe dark berry fruit, Mediterranean herbs, leather, earthy minerals, spice notes

Evolution: Developing tertiary aromas of forest floor, truffle, and dried fruit expected over next 5-10 years

At peak: Complex layered profile with silky tannins and balanced acidity providing long finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balancing richness

Tannins

Firm, well-integrated

Alcohol

Around 14.5%

Aging potential

20+ years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2048

Optimal window

2024 to 2051

Current status

Approaching optimal maturity

Current condition

Bottle likely showing well with good fruit concentration and developing complexity

Domaine Tempier’s La Tourtine is a top Bandol cuvée renowned for robust Mourvèdre structure and age-worthiness. The 2016 vintage was excellent in Provence, providing ripe fruit balanced by freshness allowing prolonged aging and gradual tertiary development.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, Provençal stews, game meats, hard cheeses like aged Comté or Manchego, and dishes with rosemary or lavender

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and open up complex aromas

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Sustainable vineyard management with minimal chemical use, cover crops, integrated pest management, partial solar energy usage at estate

Domaine Tempier employs environmentally-responsible farming techniques focusing on soil health and biodiversity. Their commitment to organic practices and partial biodynamics positively impacts sustainability. While long-distance export increases footprint, packaging optimization and energy use improvements support overall sustainability.