Winemaker Notes
A relatively new addition to their holdings and totaling 8 hectares, their property in Lirac is a mix of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre on a complex terroir of sand, pale clay-limestone, and gravelly red clay. It was a sadly neglected vineyard so it has taken many years to convert this site to biodynamics which is just beginning to show in the wines. What was once simple and benign has become stony and refined with a raciness from the Syrah (up to 30% of the blend) and real muscle from the Mourvedre (also up to 30% of the blend). A unique wine in the context of the property and a very serious style for Lirac.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.
A larger region between Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Tavel, Lirac red wines resemble some of the best Cotes du Rhone Villages wines, while it’s rosés are akin to those of Tavel. The region’s quality whites, based on Bourboulenc, Clairette, Grenache Blanc and Roussanne, are round and fruit-driven.