Domaine Tempier, Bandol Blanc 2021

White wine accounts for just 3% of Domaine Tempier total wine production. It is made from grapes grown on the estates finest vineyards which benefit from limited exposure to sunshine. This results in the grapes ripening slowly which allows the wine to mature with good balance after spending 8 to 10 months in oak casks. Blended from a mix of Clairette, Bourboulenc and Ugni Blanc varieties, the white develops strong mineral notes on a fresh palate with an attractive aroma of citrus fruits mingled with white blossom. For drinking within 6 to 8 years. The terroir of Domaine Tempier is made up of several parcels with diverse expositions one reason for the complexity of our wines. The white wine blend comprises 60% Clairette with a combination of Ugni blanc, Bourboulenc and a little Marsanne (3%). Traditionally our vines are goblet-trained, although some Cinsault and Grenache vines are spur-pruned in a Cordon de Royat trellis system for good fruit exposure and ventilation. Pruning takes place between December and February according to the phases of the moon. Six shoots are left per vine. Bud pruning begins at the end of April and is done by hand. The vines are trimmed to promote the fruit bearing shoots while excess shoots are removed in order to control the yield.

The celebrity of Domaine Tempier lies deep in the soils of Bandol. Variations of clay and limestone soils between the vineyards produce wines that are undeniably world class. Whether it is the cult following they have established through their refreshing, age-worthy rose (once praised by Robert Parker as the greatest rose in the world), their Bandol Blanc, or the distinctive cuvees of Bandol rouge, the wines of Domaine Tempier stand as the proud benchmark when talking about Provencal wines. Through their passion, pioneering, and advocacy for Bandol, the Peyraud family has become legendary.