2022 Lafran-Veyrolles Bandol Rose

"One of the oldest wine estates in Bandol, 10ha Lafran-Veyrolles dates back to 1641 when it existed as a country house with grounds featuring vineyards, olive groves, hazelnut and oak trees. In fact the word ‘Veyrolles’ derives from the ancient word ‘rouvraie’, referring to an area planted with oak trees in the Cadière-d’Azur commune. The vineyards are situated on clay slopes with limestone and chalky marl subsoils overlooking the sea. This wine is made from 70% Mourvèdre, 15% Grenache and 15% Cinsault, partly using the saignée method of bleeding off a portion of red wine juice after a 24-hour maceration. Elizabeth Gabay MW: Pale copper-pink. Fresh, vibrant redcurrant acidity, long zestiness balanced by a concentrated weight of ripe fruit and good structure. Not overtly phenolic or tannic, but overall a good balance of structure. Joanna Simon: Dried-apple aromas. Slight spritz on the palate. Rounded, sweet-fruited, supple texture, good acidity, still youthful. Rod Smith MW: Mid-pale orange colour. Intensely fruity aromas with some red berries as well as caramelised citrus peel and kumquat. Some savoury saline lees. Still very youthful, and could easily be kept. But delicious and complex. Terrific wine. Worth making a lobster bisque for."

"Tasted as a tank sample, this 2018 Bandol Rose comes across as edgy and young (as it should). Peach, tangerine and lime zest mark the nose, while the medium-bodied palate should smooth out nicely within a few months yet retain enough freshness to drink well for a couple of years."