2022 Chateau de Pibarnon Bandol Rosé

65% Mourvèdre, 35% Cinsault; all certified organic. Hand-harvested from steep, terraced limestone slopes overlooking the sea. A mix of direct press and short skin maceration (saignée); fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and purity. Aged 6 months in large, neutral oak foudres to add texture, roundness, and complexity without imparting any oak flavor. 13.5% alcohol.  The nose explodes with white peach, blood orange, wild strawberry, Meyer lemon, crushed seashell, fennel frond, and that heady scent of Provençal garrigue—thyme, rosemary, and lavender after a summer rain. On the palate, it’s textural, mouth-coating yet vibrant. Bright citrus, wild berries, white nectarine, and salty, stony minerality play off each other in perfect harmony. A savory, almost brothy undertone adds depth. The finish? Long, dry, electric, and mouthwatering, with a whisper of tannin from Mourvèdre that keeps everything grounded.

93 points, Wine Advocate. "The citrusy, mentholated 2022 Bandol Rosé was crafted with a blend of 65% Mourvèdre and 35% Cinsault and matured six months in barrels. It displays aromas of pomegranate, citrus, spring flowers, iodine, jasmine and crushed stones, followed by a beautifully defined texture, a fleshy core of fruit and racy acids that underpin a delicate, well-delineated and calcareous finish. It's going to drink nicely in its youth, but I suspect it will also age gracefully over the next 2-5 years."

92 points, Wine Spectator. "A distinctive, beautifully harmonious rosé, with a pronounced dusting of fleur de sel over melon, red berry and plum flavors, all spiked by singed herbs and dried flowers. Boasts blood orange acidity that drives impressive length, building in concentration toward the finish. Offers abundant intrigue and pleasure, with just the right amount of richness. Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2032."