Domaine Tempier
by Chris Santini
Domaine Tempier is a wine—it is also a family; exuberance and finesse are the traits common to both,” wrote Richard Olney back in 1984. What’s remarkable about this simple yet spot on-observation is how true it rang then, how true it rang forty years prior to that, when Tempier had just released its first wine, and how true it still rings today, forty years later. There must be something in the water, or the wine, down at Tempier, as everyone in each succeeding generation seems to laugh, smile, live long, and live well (it’s been nearly a century of constant joyous commotion at the estate, with countless gatherings of family, friends, and clients over apéritifs and legendary meals). The family and the team at the helm of Tempier today continue to keep these traditions alive, the wines just as expressive, soulful, and unquestionably provençal as always, and the domaine a place of welcoming joviality, same as it ever was.
2022 Bandol Rouge “Lulu et Lucien”
France | Provence
This bottling is named in honor of the much-loved and greatly missed founders of the estate, who not only built up Tempier from ruins during tumultuous and trying times, but also helped to bring the luster back to the long-neglected Bandol region as a whole. Tempier says this is their signature Bandol; it’s a blend of dark fruit and vibrant stony minerality—a classic expression of what they do best.
2022 Bandol Rouge “La Migoua”
France | Provence
From steep slopes in the hills above the estate, this is perhaps the most wildly perfumed of the trio, lots of summer herbs and brambles on the nose, with a soft juicy core, possibly from a bit of Cinsault in there, from the acclaimed La Louffe microclimate in the heart of La Migoua. Expressive and tasty.
2022 Bandol Rouge “La Tourtine”
France | Provence
If the Lulu & Lucien and Migoua bottlings epitomize the exuberant side of Tempier, the Tourtine is where the finesse really shines through. It’s delicate, refined, and ever more majestic as it opens up. This is exceptional and understated Bandol of which Lulu and Lucien would undoubtedly be proud.
More from the December 2024 Newsletter
