The vineyards of the 50-hectare Domaine la Suffrene are spread over the communes of La Cadiere-d'Azur and Castellet in the Provencal appellation of Bandol. The estate is run by Cedric Gravier and although the first estate-bottled wines were released only in 1996, the domaine is now one of the leading producers of the region. This full-bodied, savoury red is a blend of predominantly Mourvedre with the addition of Grenache Noir, Carignan and Cinsault. The wine is aged in oak vats for 18 months before release and marries perfectly with rich meat dishes.
A deep, almost opaque purple in colour. Scents of prunes, blueberries and woodsmoke. On the palate dry and savoury with well integrated tannins that soften to produce a subtle yet lingering finish. Great with Boeuf Avignonnaise (with pimento and anchovies), braised goose with apples and seasonal vegetables or a plate of saucisson d'Arles.