Château de Pibarnon Rouge AOC 2018 1500ml Magnum

Wine Description for Château de Pibarnon Rouge AOC 2018 1500ml Magnum from Château de Pibarnon

Colour & Appearance

Dense, rich purple with luminous violet reflections – a wine that reveals its concentration and youthfulness in the glass.

Nose

Here the full class of a great Bandol reveals itself: dark cherries, blackberries and blackcurrant meet a fascinating balsamic spice. Tar, liquorice and graphite lend the bouquet a cool, almost ethereal dimension, whilst juniper, rosemary and dark chocolate alongside roasted coffee beans provide Mediterranean complexity. Despite all its intensity, the 2018 remains remarkably delicate and elegant – a Mourvèdre of inviting generosity.

Palate

Juicy, precise, cool – the first sip fully confirms the promises of the nose. The wine shows itself taut and sleek, with impressive drinkability and a graphite note that gives it a linear, cooling backbone. The 14.5% alcohol is perfectly integrated, the warm Mediterranean climate nowhere intrusive. Rather, a wonderful balance between ripe fruit and racy structure dominates – a Mourvèdre that effortlessly unites power and finesse.

Finish

Long, nuanced and carried by an elegant freshness. The dark fruit fades out with verve, accompanied by mineral notes and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.

Terroir & Origin

The terraced vineyards of Château de Pibarnon in the Bandol appellation are amongst the most spectacular in Provence. With views over the Mediterranean, the vines thrive here on limestone soils that lend the wine its characteristic freshness and minerality.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Dominated by Mourvèdre, complemented by Cinsault. Eric de Saint Victor runs the estate organically with biodynamic approaches – a philosophy reflected in the precision and purity of this wine.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Sour calf’s tongue with lentil-sherry vinaigrette, ragout of lamb leg with turnips and tomato or roasted aubergine with curry yoghurt, pomegranate and almond – the wine harmonises equally well with robust meat dishes as with spicy vegetarian creations.

Special Features

The magnum bottle promises optimal ageing conditions for the coming years. A Bandol that is already accessible now, but will doubtless gain further complexity.