One of the best finds from last year’s Vinexpo in Bordeaux were the wines from domain Bunan in Bandol.

 Bandol is a coastal town on the Mediterranean who’s given its name to Provence’s most prestigious appellation for red and rosé wines based on the noble Mourvèdre grape.

 Domain Bunan is a small, three generations family owned and operated wine estate; the 40 acres of vineyards are situated on steep, terraced slopes facing the Mediterranean.

The domain has been in conversion to organic farming practices since 2008.

 The 2010 Bunan Bandol Rosé and the 2006 Bunan Bandol Red are an incredible bargain offered at $18.99.

 The 2010 Bunan Rosé “Moulin des Costes”, a blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault, exhibits a salmon-pink color with red raspberry hues and aromas and flavors of red berries and flowers, peach and pomegranate followed by delicate spice and freshness on the long finish. Pair with light apetaizers, spicy dishes, seafood dishes, grilled fish and grilled white meats.

 The 2006 Bunan Bandol Red “Moulin des Costes”, a blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault, exhibits a saturated ruby color and aromas of red and black berries with touch of toasty oak; full-bodied, with fine-grain tannins and flavors of blackcurrant, blackberries, spices and leather. Decant and serve at 70ºF.

This is my favorite red to pair with gamy meats like venison, pairs well with lamb and another favorite, Beef and Mediterranean olives stew; try it with chocolate-based desserts as well.

Atanas Nechkov, Central Florida Wine Supervisor

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