Wines Bandol Domaine La Suffrène - Cuvée les Lauves - 1996

Domaine La Suffrène’s Bandol Rouge 1996, “Cuvée les Lauves”, is a noteworthy bottle from the heart of Provence, crafted in one of France’s most revered appellations for deep, ageworthy red wines. While specific details about the blend are not confirmed, Bandol reds are characteristically built around the Mourvèdre grape, often complemented by Grenache and Cinsault. The 1996 vintage, now showing maturity, likely displays tertiary aromas developed over decades: dried black cherries, leather, undergrowth, and a subtle thread of Mediterranean herbs, paired with a structured palate marked by well-integrated tannins and a lingering, savoury finish.

The Bandol region, nestled in the Provençal hills near the Mediterranean coast, boasts a unique terroir. Its warm climate, tempered by sea breezes, allows grapes to ripen fully while maintaining freshness. The soils, dominated by limestone and clay, lend the wines notable depth and minerality; these conditions encourage robust, long-lived wines of character. Bandol’s winemaking tradition stretches back centuries, and the region is widely respected for adhering to artisanal, tradition-forward methods. These wines are some of the most distinguished expressions of red Provençal terroir, prized both within France and internationally.

When it comes to food pairings, aged Bandol rouge is best enjoyed with dishes that stand up to its intensity and evolved complexity. Think slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary, beef stew enriched with black olives, or Provençal classics such as daube or rabbit with tapenade. For a regional pairing, a platter of local charcuterie or a mature Comté cheese would complement the wine’s savoury notes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Bandol at 16-18°C after allowing the bottle some time to breathe, ideally by decanting for around an hour. This will encourage the wine’s aromas to unfurl gently, offering an experience that speaks to both place and time.