The Cote d’Azur is not all about Starlettes.
The Bandol area in Provence has great wines to offer.
In the summer it is a good spot to find a real Rosé.
Today I want to share the shear satisfaction I had sharing a bottle of Restanques de Pibarnon (2005) with friends last Monday.
The people at North Berkeley Imports greeted the first vintage ( 2003) with the following words:
"Here’s the perfect Pibarnon for the impatient among us. While we love
the powerful, bold Bandol wines crafted by Eric de Saint-Victor of
Chateau Pibarnon (French only), we’ve always wished we could find a wine that
captures all the beauty of Bandol but doesn’t require a decade in the
cellar to enjoy. In 2003, our wish was granted!"
What makes Restanques drinkable at a younger age compared to its sibling Pibarnon?
It is 70% rather than 100% Mourvedre balanced by the 30% Grenache.
Restanques means Terraces in Provencal.
The soil is clay and gravel. This rustic wine offers a mouthful of berries, a touch of spice and good tannins.
You might even be able to taste the scenery of the surrounding garrigues, if you are lucky (and inspired).
You should find it for around $23.
Notes on a visit to Chateau Pibarnon can be found on The Wine Doctor.