2023 Domaine La Suffrene Bandol Rose, Provence

A beautiful blend of 40% Mourvedre, 30% Cinsault and 20% Grenache. Attractive nose of herbal red berry, peach and jasmine. Fresh, ripe palate, with strawberry and cherry overtones and a touch of mineral crunch.

93 points Decanter World Wine Awards 2024 

Aromas of grapefruit, citrus, herbs and red berries preface the 2023 Bandol Rose from Domaine La Suffrene, a medium-bodied, delicate and juicy rosé with an iodine-tinged, mineral and fresh finish. It is perfect for summer food.

91 points Yohan Castaing robertparker.com 2024

Domaine La Suffrene Bandol Rosé from Provence is a remarkable wine that showcases the elegance and power of one of the region’s most celebrated appellations. Bandol, located in the heart of Provence, is renowned for producing some of the finest rosé wines in the world, and Domaine La Suffrene is one of its standout producers. The winery is known for its commitment to high-quality, sustainable viticulture and meticulous winemaking, creating wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of the region.

The winemaker behind Domaine La Suffrene is Laurent Dufau, whose expertise and passion for Provence’s winemaking traditions are evident in every bottle. Laurent's approach combines modern techniques with respect for the region’s long history of viticulture. Domaine La Suffrene’s vineyards are nestled in the hills surrounding the village of Bandol, where the combination of Mediterranean breezes, limestone-rich soils, and abundant sunshine creates the perfect conditions for growing grapes. The estate focuses on the production of wines that highlight the true potential of the Mourvèdre grape, which is the dominant varietal in Bandol, alongside Grenache and Cinsault, all of which contribute to the wine's complexity and depth.

Domaine La Suffrene Bandol Rosé has a pale, salmon-pink color that gleams in the glass, reflecting the wine’s freshness and vibrancy. The nose is aromatic and inviting, with delicate notes of red berries, such as strawberry and raspberry, along with hints of citrus zest, white flowers, and a touch of herbs. There’s also a subtle underlying minerality, characteristic of Bandol’s unique terroir, which adds depth and complexity to the bouquet.

On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, with a crisp, refreshing acidity that balances the rich fruit flavors. The red fruit is bright and vibrant, with strawberry and watermelon notes, while a slight touch of citrus adds a zesty lift. The mouthfeel is smooth and rounded, thanks to the influence of Mourvèdre, which provides structure and depth. The finish is long and elegant, with a pleasant minerality and a touch of floral freshness, making this rosé a true expression of Provence.

Domaine La Suffrene Bandol Rosé is a wonderfully food-friendly wine, perfect for pairing with a wide variety of dishes. It’s an excellent match for Mediterranean cuisine, such as grilled seafood, particularly grilled shrimp or lobster, and it also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, ratatouille, or Provencal-style chicken. Its acidity and freshness make it ideal for fresh salads, goat cheese, and light pasta dishes, such as pasta with seafood or a simple olive oil-based pasta.

As one of the great rosé wines from Provence, Domaine La Suffrene Bandol Rosé is a wine that consistently impresses with its balance, complexity, and ability to enhance any meal. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or as part of a sophisticated dinner, it’s a wine that embodies the true spirit of Provence.