La Bastide Blanche, Bandol Blanc, Provence, France, 2023

Producer Profile

La Bastide Blanche is a family-owned estate located in Sainte-Anne-du-Castellet, in the heart of the Bandol appellation.

Established in 1972, the estate produces red, white, and rosé wines with a focus on showcasing the unique character of the region’s terroir. Set against the foothills of the Sainte-Baume mountain range and just seven kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea, the vineyards benefit from limestone scree soils and an ideal microclimate.

Viticulture

The estate cultivates a variety of grape types, including Grenache, Cinsault, Clairette, and most notably, Mourvèdre—the signature grape of Bandol. All grapes are hand-harvested in accordance with AOC Bandol regulations. This manual approach allows for careful selection in the vineyard, ensuring that only the highest-quality fruit is used in winemaking. La Bastide Blanche is committed to sustainable viticulture and certified organic across its entire production. The team continually refines both vineyard and cellar practices to preserve the environment and prioritise the health of consumers, without compromising on quality.

Winemaking

The grapes were gently pressed using pneumatic pressing, followed by several days of skin maceration to extract colour and flavour. The wine was then aged in concrete vats, allowing for subtle texture development and natural micro-oxygenation.

Tasting Note

The wine presents a pale golden hue, offering an inviting visual impression. On the nose, it reveals a layered aromatic profile of ripe white peach and freshly cut green herbs. The palate is generous and textured, unfolding with bold aniseed notes and culminating in a distinctly saline, lingering finish.

Food Matching

Lightly spiced dishes featuring fennel, thyme, or rosemary. Salads with citrus vinaigrettes or fresh herbs.