Château Pradeaux Bandol Rouge

SIZE: 750ml

There is the appellation of Bandol with its plethora of producers, some good, some mediocre; and then there is Château Pradeaux, the unique, inimitable, standard-bearer for this ancient wine-growing district. Château Pradeaux is situated on the outskirts of the town of Saint Cyr-sur-Mer that lies directly on the Mediterranean Ocean between Toulon and Marseilles. The estate has been in the hands of the Portalis family since before the French Revolution.  

Aged a minimum of 48 months in old barrel before release, this is old school Bandol. 95% Mourvedre, the wine has ferocious tannins and can definitely use a decanter before drinking. Now a 2016, a bit of bottle age helps, yet it is still a baby. Incredibly complex, the aromatics showcase honey and florals with earthy animal tones in the background. The fruit stains the palate; and the finish brings dusty, ripe, broad tannins.