Chateau Pibarnon Bandol Rose 2010

Stephen Tanzer 91
"Light, bright orange. Blood orange, cherry, herbal and floral aromas are underscored by a lively mineral quality. At once dense and fresh, offering potent red berry and bitter citrus flavors and a late note of tarragon. The floral and herbal notes carry through onto the long, sappy, focused finish. Packs a serious punch but carries no excess weight, which will make it very flexible at the table."

Operating in a region marked by the persistence of tradition, Pibarnon is the most modern of the top Bandol estates. The amphitheater of terraced vineyards yields grapes for a single densely fruity red in the style of a Mourvedre-based Chateauneuf du Pape. Chateau de Pibarnon's wine is bottled and released earlier than most Bandols, and can be enjoyed on the young side. The estate also produces a fleshy, fruit-driven rose with the body to stand up to hearty food. Like most Bandol rose, this is not for casual sipping.