Château d'Aqueria - Lirac blanc 2024

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

The estate is unique in that it is the only one to extend over both the Tavel and Lirac appellations, covering 65 hectares. Its rounded pebbles on the surface and sandy-clay subsoil produce fairly fresh wines, as the vines suffer less from the heat than in other areas. Tavel contains eight of the nine grape varieties authorized in the appellation, and is a source of pride for the Bez family, who manage this magnificent estate with discretion and wisdom. Tavel contains eight of the nine grape varieties authorized in the appellation, and is one of the prides of the Bez family, who manage this magnificent estate with discretion and wisdom. With its reasonable prices, it is a model for the region. The wines here show tremendous aging potential and develop admirably in complexity, as regularly proven by vertical tastings.

Decanter

About wine:

With its aromas of peach, citrus zest, and green apple, this wine is crisp, clean, and lively. Surprisingly full-bodied, with a lovely roundness and a rich, full palate, it is carried by a lemony acidity that lingers on the finish. A firm and confident style.

Guide Hachette des vins

About the estate:

In 1919, Jean Olivier acquired the former estate of the Counts of Aqueria, dominated by an 18th-century château and adorned with a French-style park. His son-in-law Paul de Bez completely restructured the vineyard: today, it covers 64 hectares in a single block, managed since 1984 by his grandsons Vincent and Bruno, now joined by Raphaël, the fourth generation. A sure bet for Lirac and Tavel wines.

Guide des Vins Gault & Millau

About the estate:

The Château d'Aqueria dates back to the 16th century. In 1920, it was acquired by Jean Olivier, who brought it to prominence. Vincent and Bruno de Bez now oversee the estate where they grew up, which covers no less than 66 hectares. Apart from Tavel, a renowned gastronomic rosé, the rest of the production, under the Lirac appellation (both red and white), is often interesting.

Jancis Robinson

About wine:

A very appealing nose with notes of lime zest and pear. Rich and succulent on the palate, with good concentration throughout. Engaging, with a long finish. Appealing, it should age well over the next few years.

Jeb Dunnuck

About wine:

A classic blend from the estate, now crafted by Ralph Garcin, the 2024 Lirac Blanc is composed of 40% White Grenache, 30% Clairette, and 10% Bourboulenc, Roussanne, and Viognier. It is aged for nine months in stainless steel tanks (50%) and concrete tanks (50%) on fine lees with bâtonnage. It has a medium golden color and a juicy, clean, and pure nose of stone fruit, lemon cream with honey, and flowers. It is medium-bodied, clean, pure, and precise on the palate, with good concentration, integrated acidity, and exceptional length. Best enjoyed within the next 4 to 5 years. Drink between 2026 and 2030.