Viniou Reviews
Domaine Les Luquettes 2023 Bandol Rouge presents a wonderful expression of this celebrated appellation in Provence. Crafted primarily from Mourvèdre, the hallmark grape of Bandol, often complemented by Grenache and Cinsault, this wine is emblematic of the traditional powerful yet refined reds from the region. The 2023 vintage, shaped by a warm Mediterranean year, delivers a vibrant and youthful character, with deep purple hues and aromas of blackberries, plums, wild herbs, and subtle notes of violet and spice. The terroir, marked by limestone and clay soils, brings both structure and a distinctive mineral backbone, while meticulous attention in the cellar ensures a wine of impressive depth—the Mourvèdre is typically matured in large oak barrels to develop complexity while retaining freshness.
Bandol lies at the heart of Provence’s sun-soaked coast, drawing clear influence from its unique microclimate. Shielded by the Sainte-Baume mountains and cooled by sea breezes, the vineyards benefit from abundant sunlight, which ensures Mourvèdre’s slow, complete ripening and lends the wines their renowned concentration. The stony soils of the appellation, rich in limestone, foster healthy vine growth and excellent drainage. Bandol has a rich viticultural history dating back to Roman times, and is today prized for its age-worthy reds capable of decades of evolution in bottle.
This Bandol Rouge’s bold, structured profile calls for equally flavoursome dishes. For a regional pairing, consider slow-cooked lamb shoulder with Provençal herbs, daube de boeuf, or grilled entrecôte seasoned with thyme. Game such as wild boar or duck confit will also highlight the profundity of flavour in the wine. The wine’s robust tannins and savoury dimension also pair beautifully with earthy lentil stews or mushroom risotto.
To enjoy this Bandol Rouge at its best, serve it at 17-18°C. It will benefit from decanting at a young age to allow its bouquet to unfurl and to soften the youthful tannins. This is a wine with admirable potential for cellaring, promising even greater complexity and harmony with a few years in the bottle.
