The 2023 Domaine Tempier Bandol Lulu & Lucien Magnum (1500ml) is a legendary Southern Rhône-style red from one of Provence’s most iconic estates. Formerly known simply as the Classique, this flagship cuvée was renamed Lulu & Lucien in honour of Lucie "Lulu" Tempier and Lucien Peyraud, the visionary couple who transformed Domaine Tempier into the benchmark producer of Bandol and helped establish Mourvèdre as the defining grape of the appellation. Crafted from approximately 75% Mourvèdre, complemented by Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan and a small amount of Syrah, the wine is sourced from multiple clay-limestone vineyards across Bandol and matured for around 18 months in large oak foudres. The 2023 vintage offers exceptional fruit purity and balance, while the magnum format ensures even slower, more graceful ageing.
The nose is deep and captivating, revealing aromas of blackberry, black cherry and ripe plum layered with Provençal garrigue, lavender and dried thyme. As the wine opens, notes of black olive, liquorice and cracked pepper emerge, complemented by hints of cedar, leather and earthy complexity. The aromatic profile is powerful yet beautifully refined, balancing Mediterranean warmth with remarkable freshness and savoury detail.
On the palate, it is full-bodied with silky yet firmly structured tannins, vibrant natural acidity and impressive concentration. Layers of dark berry fruits, black cherry and plum are supported by savoury notes of olive tapenade, dried herbs, spice and mineral complexity. Mourvèdre provides the wine's unmistakable structure and longevity, while Grenache and Cinsault contribute elegance and aromatic lift. The finish is exceptionally long, persistent and beautifully balanced, carrying lingering notes of dark fruits, garrigue, liquorice and crushed limestone. Although already remarkably expressive, the wine possesses the depth and structure to develop superb tertiary aromas of leather, undergrowth and game over the coming decades.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of the world's benchmark expressions of Mourvèdre and a must-have for collectors of Rhône and Mediterranean wines. Compared to richer Châteauneuf-du-Pape styles, Domaine Tempier Lulu & Lucien offers greater savoury complexity, mineral precision and remarkable ageing potential while maintaining extraordinary elegance. The magnum format makes this especially desirable for long-term cellaring, allowing the wine to mature more slowly and reveal even greater nuance over time. While already impressive with extended decanting, it will continue to evolve beautifully for 20–30 years. Perfect with roast lamb shoulder, slow-braised beef, venison, cassoulet, wild game, mature hard cheeses or classic Provençal cuisine.
