Domaine Tempier 2023 Bandol "Lulu & Lucien", Provence

Tempier’s classique blend is now called “Lulu et Lucien”, a tribute to the legendary owners of Domaine Tempier until Lulu’s death in 2020 at the age of 102.  (To really get a feel for classic Provence cooking, get hold of a copy of Richard Olney’s book Lulu’s Provencal Table. The recipes are authentic, but the lifestyle commentary is priceless.)

"The 2023 Bandol Lulu & Lucien, with 75% Mourvèdre completed by Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan and Syrah, kicks off with black-fruited, fleshy aromas marked by licorice and a touch of cedarwood. Full-bodied, powerful and concentrated, it is built around ripe tannins that already feel well integrated. There is plenty of Bandol character here, but the wine is surprisingly approachable for such a young age."--Nicolas Greinacher, Vinous

"The Lulu et Lucien cuvée is, for me, the finest gateway into the wines of Domaine Tempier, as it synthesizes the appellation, and this 2023 Bandol Lulu et Lucien is a wine of serious, ample body built on round and suave tannins. Aromas of blackberry, fresh olive, and thyme greet you, with fine concentration and great finesse. It is ready to cross the next ten years without concern. Drink now-2033."--Antoine Petrus, JebDunnick.com