Someone on the Mouvedre thread asked me to provide my impressions of the 2013 Chateau de Pibarnon (100% Mouvedre). On Saturday I popped open a bottle to accompany a Q’d Prime Top Sirloin. Unfortunately I didn’t give the near enough air time, because it was tighter than a bulls ass in fly time. After a couple of hours and long passed pairing with the steak the wine began to open a little and offer hints of black cherry, leather, anise and a bit of spice. On the palate it was fairly benign and honestly I didn’t get many of the same characteristics that came through on the nose. This Mouvedre was also a bit out of balance with a strong tannic backbone.
2013 wasn’t a particularly good vintage in Bandol, if memory serves me correct, therefore I’m not sure how much improvement I’ll see with additional age. I’ve still got a little bit left in the bottle, so if there’s something worth noting tonight I’ll post a follow-up.
Cheers.