Chateau Vannieres 2025 Bandol Rose, Provence, France

The land inland from the Mediterranean port town of Bandol produces some of France’s most prized rosés, some going for $50 and more.  They are made from Mourvedre, Bandol’s signature red grape with the usual south-of-France varieties as in the latest Vannières vintage with 60% Mouvedre, 20% Grenache and 20% Cinsaut.  This is a lighter-bodied version this year, with a pale pink color and focused fruit flavors.  It isn’t likely to overwhelm anything on the plate, just provide a pleasant Provence experience at a relatively attractive price given the prestige of the appellation.