Domaine La Bastide, Blanche Rose Bandol 2022

92 points Wine Advocate
"A classic rose from Bandol, the 2022 Bandol Rose possesses a stony, elegant bouquet with aromas of iodine, red berries and spices, overlaid by nuances of curry and menthol. Layered and textured, perfectly balanced and moderately weighted, its fleshy and long with a mineral, delicate and mentholated finish. Its approachable now but also built to evolve with grace over the next 1-3 years. Drink: 2023-2026."

Vinous Reverie Notes
In the early ‘70s Michel and Louis Bronzo acquired the property of the Bastide Blanche, with an eye to produce from appellation Bandol wines the equal of more famous appellations like Châteauneuf. 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. All Bandol, all in the same close area to Bastide Blanche. He has pieced these properties together over time. He keeps the names separate as the terroirs are different and the wines have been sold under those names in France for a long time. 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. Situated in St. Anne de Castellet, a terroir of Bandol rich in limestone. This, and the high proportion of Mourvèdre gives this domaine some of the most ripe and expressive of Bandol. Tasting Notes: An absolute beauty of a rosé at this price point. Mouthwatering aromas of strawberry cream on the nose, followed by a silky, refined palate with delicate but distinct flavors of melon and peach. A relatively light wine for a southern French rosé, but one whose texture and character gives it impressive weight and substance.