Domaine Souviou

The Souviou estate is one of the ones at higher altitude in the Bandol appellation area and sits up in the north east corner of the region with grand views down to the Med. In-land and within just a couple of kilometers, is the motor racing Circuit Paul Ricard,

But the vineyard failed to capitalise on the return of F1 racing to France with our host saying that unfortunately, the traffic on track-days was so bad no one could access the Domaine. Our visit was with far more ease and the large estate proved welcoming, fresh and refined.

Domaine Souviou covers 70 hectares and much of the land includes ancient olive groves as well as the vines. The modern degustation salon was tastefully decorated and we tried two of the rosés on offer plus three types of olive oil.

The first wine was from 2016 with an even balance of mourvèdre, cinsault and grenache was very fruity and pleasant and despite the 14% level, it didn’t seem to pack an alcoholic punch. The second rosé from 2017 was from 60% mourvèdre and 40% cinsault and proved more of a complex pour.

Tried and tasted the 2016 Domaine Souviou Bandol rosé at €17/bottle followed by the 2017 Souviou at €18/bottle.

Destination, drop-in or drive-by? A firm addition to your list - this is probably how many of the Bandol estates will strive to emulate in the coming years.

RN 8 - 8330 Le Beausset