The color showed some bricking, surprising for a Bandol at this age. The aromas featured black cherry, black raspberry and hints of strawberry, olive and iron. The palate is sturdy, with excellent balance, foursquare with fine tannins and plenty of acidity. There is a metallic more than mineral note in the finish that slightly detracts but also speaks of youth. The wine broadened over the course of the evening but if anything seemed to get younger. This is a very good and even more distinctive wine, drinking well now but probably not at peak for another 5+ years. Rated 88.5 on opening, 89.5 later, up to 3 points of improvement likely.
Dan Kravitz
