2011 Domaine Tempier, Bandol Rose, Provence France.
I surely would rate this beautiful and crisp Rose much higher if the price was a bit lower, and my only real complaint here is that I can’t afford more of it, plus it sells out too fast. Kermit Lynch’s jewel of Bandol Domaine Tempier is a first class winery and without question this is a super quality wine that will always be sought after and enjoyed regardless of cost. A cuvee of Grenache and Mourvedre, though mostly flavored by the Mourvedre the Tempier Bandol Rose shows bright cherry, watermelon, plum and strawberry with a huge burst of red and pink citrus. The wine opens to liquid mineral, hints of spices and cranberry, but it is the juicy acidity that drives this dry Rose. This wine will drink great this summer, though it can go a few years, in case you lose a few bottles in your cellar, but I can hardly imagine anyone not drinking it up sooner vs. later!
($40-42 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
avail at www.sfwtc.com ($40)