Domaine La Suffrène - Bandol rouge 2020

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

The friendly Cédric Gravier has been managing this family estate since 1996 with great open-mindedness and an innate sense of hospitality. With him comes a big change, and the grapes that were previously taken to the cooperative will now be vinified on the estate. This rebirth was made possible thanks to his grandfather, who knew every vine like the back of his hand. Today, the estate covers nearly 60 hectares and Cédric began converting it to organic farming in 2017. Located in the western part of the appellation, on mainly clay-limestone soil, the estate's varied plots ensure the diversity of expression of Mourvèdre, Bandol's flagship grape variety, with old vines accounting for 90% of the total.

Guide Hachette des vins

About wine:

A good half Mourvèdre (60%), the rest Grenache, Cinsault, and Carignan: a little diversity doesn't hurt, especially when it comes to making a Bandol "for thirst," meaning accessible in its youth without compromising its aging potential. This goal has been achieved with this open red wine, which offers aromas of iris, stewed blackberry, and gingerbread, followed by a full, caressing palate framed by silky tannins that accompany an elegant finish with a hint of menthol.

About the estate:

It is in a place called La Suffrène—which is said to have been the former residence of a companion of the Bailiff of Suffren—that part of the vineyards of this essential estate in the Bandol appellation are located. A 60-hectare family vineyard, divided into around a hundred plots, whose grapes were taken to the cooperative until the arrival of Cédric Gravier, who took over from his grandparents in 1996. Currently converting to organic farming.

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About wine:

 High marks for the 2020 Bandol, which fits the mold of a Provençal red appellation: textured and powerful, but dry on the finish.

About the estate:

For many years, the Gravier-Piche family brought the fruits of their labor to the cooperative winery. When Cédric Gravier returned to the family estate in 1996, he decided to make his own wines and bottle the expression of old Mourvèdre grapes, mainly from La Cadière d'Azur. Over the years, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to vinify the entire 58 hectares. With flavors more reminiscent of strawberries than citrus fruits, the rosés are rich in both color and concentration. The richness and texture of these early-ripening terroirs are reflected in dense reds with seductive tannins, illustrating the clayey softness of the terroir. A classic that appeals to all, yet has not sold its Mediterranean soul.