Although the Migoua commands a higher price, in my opinion it is the Tourtine that represents Tempier’s best cuvee. A wonderful, ebullient nose of blackberry, cherry, hedgerow and an almost savoury character. The palate has sublime balance and greater minerality than other cuvees; vigorous, utterly harmonious with a well-defined, wonderful poised finish. Outstanding. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2025

Young and primary with serious black cherry and blackberry fruit, loamy earth, leather and mineral aromas; the 2005 Domaine Tempier Bandol Cuvée Spéciale La Tourtine shows subtle brett notes and picks up a meaty, sauteed mushroom slant with air. The palate is medium to full bodied with beautiful fruit, solid structure and depth to the mid-palate and a medium to long finish. This has a nice core of acidity paired with rich fruit and plenty of fine grained tannins that show up on the finish.