# Les Adrets Bandol Rouge (2020)

- **Producer:** Moulin de la Roque
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Mourvèdre, Grenache, Carignan
- **Region:** Provence, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, blackcurrant, plum, black pepper, liquorice, lavender, cedar, vanilla, smoke, leather, game, forest floor, tobacco

## About this wine

Moulin de la Roque, established in 1950, is a prominent cooperative in the Bandol appellation of Provence, France. Bringing together local winegrowing families under the 'Familles et Domaines' banner, the estate is dedicated to preserving the unique terroir of Bandol. The 'Les Adrets' cuvée is named after the sun-drenched, south-facing terraced vineyards ('adrets') where the grapes are grown. This wine represents the classic, rugged elegance of the region, heavily influenced by the Mediterranean climate and the limestone-clay soils that define this coastal appellation.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Les Adrets' refers to the sunny, south-facing hillside terraces characteristic of the Bandol landscape.
- Bandol AOC regulations require red wines to be aged in oak for at least 18 months before release.
- Moulin de la Roque is a cooperative uniting multiple historic families dedicated to sustainable viticulture in Provence.

## Food pairing

The robust structure, firm tannins, and dark fruit profile of this Mourvèdre-dominant Bandol require rich, savory dishes. High-protein meats like lamb and beef help soften the wine's powerful tannins, while earthy herbs like rosemary and thyme complement its rustic, herbaceous undertones.

## Wine making process

The grapes for Les Adrets are harvested by hand to ensure optimal selection. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve fruit purity. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes traditional aging in large oak foudres (casks) for a minimum of 18 months, as required by Bandol AOC regulations for red wines. This slow wood aging softens the robust tannins of the Mourvèdre grape while adding complexity and structural depth.