Bandol enjoys a long and rich history of winemaking along the picturesque cliffs of the Mediterranean, making the benchmark Mourvèdre-based red and rosé wines of France. And while Bastide de la Ciselette may be younger as a domaine — becoming the 57th estate of the AOC in 2010 — they have been tending the vineyards for many years, previously opting to sell their fruit to the local co-op. In a remarkably short amount of time owner Robert de Salvo, with the help of talented vigneron Romain Bournaud, has become a reliable source for classic Bandol alongside its more famous neighbors.

With 15 hectares under vine, Bastide de la Ciselette sits to the north of the village of Brulat du Castellet, looking east to the medieval village of Castellet and south to the Cadière-d'Azur. De Salvo employs lutte raisonnée farming in the vineyard and works a good portion of the soils with a single horse. In the cellar, the lunar calendar offers guidance according to biodynamic principles, and the aim is to allow each vintage to speak for itself. The resulting wines are a perfect blend of rusticity and polish — elegant wines of distinct character without the rough edges. The rosé has a classic Bandol profile, displaying a darker, brambly mineral quality, while the red exhibits the appellation's classic black olive markers that integrate well with the black fruit.

Bastide de la Ciselette is a welcome addition to this ancient winemaking region, and Robert has quickly proven that this is an estate that should resonate with all lovers of the unique riches of Bandoll.


Farming and vinification practices: Sustainable