Bandol Rose Pibarnon 2018 (750ML)

93+ Points, Christopher Deas, Zachys Buying Team: "The Pibarnon rosé is about 60%Mourvèdre (saignée), with the remainder free-run Cinsault. Unlike most Bandol producers, Eric de Saint-Victor prefers not to use Grenache, which he said would add too much fruit and alcohol to this classic old-world rosé. This is another mineral-driven rosé from soils rich with pebbly limestone over blue clay that is a classic, more dry, masculine and savoury interpretation of its appellation. After an intoxicating nose, you will find notes of strawberry, tangerine, nectarine, dry herbs, rose petal, spice, minerality and refreshing acidity on the palate. You can taste the salty sea air in the glass that derives from the vineyard's hilltop position overlooking the Mediterranean. With air, this wine gains in weight with its crowd-pleasing, glycerin texture from the ripe vintage. Mr. de Saint-Victor recommends the seafood delicacies of the region, particularly rouget or sea urchin - we prefer some good old conversation with friends and guests. A Zachys favorite year after year that sells out in no time, this is a serious rosé not to be missed for the season."

92 Points, Josh Raynolds, Vinous: "Glistening orange. Pungent cherry, blood orange and floral scents, along with suggestions of succulent herbs and chalky minerals. Weighty red berry, citrus fruit and candied lavender flavors show sharp delineation and pick up a deeper peach note with aeration. Silky and broad on the impressively long finish, which leaves a refreshingly bitter orange pith note behind." 8/19