Domaine Tempier Bandol Cuvée Classique 2018
Domaine Tempier · AOC Bandol, Provence, France
At a glance
- Producer
- Domaine Tempier
- Region
- AOC Bandol, Provence, France
- Grape variety
- Mourvèdre (75%), Grenache (15%), Cinsault (7%), Carignan (3%), Syrah
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Bold
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $45-$65
Tasting profile
Intense black fruit (blackberry, black cherry), leather, forest floor, garrigue herbs, and smoky spice.
Evolution: Will evolve toward complex leather, truffle, savory spice, and earthy notes over the next 10-15 years.
At peak: Richly layered, silky tannins with integrated acidity, profound minerality and elegant herbal complexity.
Structure
- Acidity
- Balanced, refreshing acidity supporting longevity
- Tannins
- Firm and grippy, typical Mourvèdre structure
- Alcohol
- Approximately 14-14.5%
- Aging potential
- Excellent aging potential of 15+ years due to tannin, acidity and terroir
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2028 to 2043
- Optimal window
- 2023 to 2046
- Current status
- Developing complexity, approachable now with decent cellaring upside
- Current condition
- Firm tannins with vibrant acidity, fruit still youthful
This vintage from Domaine Tempier benefits from excellent Mourvèdre concentration and balanced ripeness with structured tannins and good acidity, enabling long-term aging and development of complex tertiary aromas and flavors.
Food pairing
Pairs exquisitely with Provençal lamb dishes, game meats, grilled vegetables, hearty stews, and aged hard cheeses.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (1-2 hours) — Decanting softens tannins and allows aromas to fully open up.
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 8/10
Biodynamic viticulture aiming to enhance terroir expression and soil health; water conservation and minimal intervention in cellar; use of natural yeasts; lightweight bottles to reduce packaging weight.
Domaine Tempier embraces organic and biodynamic techniques that enhance ecological balance and reduce chemical inputs. Their commitment to sustainable vineyard management including soil health, water use efficiency, and natural winemaking methods strengthens their sustainability profile. While international distribution increases carbon footprint, their packaging and energy use practices mitigate overall impact.