1997 Mas De Cadenet, Cotes du Provence

[jackl]

Ok, so I've finally gotten around to trying out a recommendation from the board on another Southern Frenhie to try (from IK, I think). This wine was so cheap (under 8 bucks) that I wasn't sure there be much flavor or body to it. While not quite full-bodied, it was definitely medium/full bodied and had good flavor as well. It seemed to me to have fairly focused plum flavors with a touch of spice (clove, mostly). It also had a definite petrol element to it, more in the aroma but also came out beneath the other more prominent flavors described above. Have others noticed this in wines of this region and how does it get there? It wasn't particularily off-putting and actually contributed a bit of complexity to the wine, which usually is a bonus. Overall, I'd rate it right up there with other wines of the region--even at higher price points.

I almost went with a Bandol that I've been eyeing. What can I expect from this kind of wine? The tag said that it was 95% mouverdre, if that helps. The only reason I didn't go with it this time is that I thought it might to strong for the stir-fry I was making.