Château d'Aqueria - Lirac blanc 2024

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

The estate is unique in that it is the only one to span both the Tavel and Lirac appellations in a single contiguous block, covering 65 hectares. Its surface pebbles and sandy-clay subsoil produce fairly fresh wines, as the vines suffer less from the heat than in other areas. The Tavel includes eight of the nine grape varieties authorized in the appellation; it is a source of pride for the Bez family, who manage this magnificent estate with discretion and wisdom, and whose reasonable prices make it a model for the region. The wines here demonstrate tremendous aging potential and develop admirably in complexity, as regular vertical tastings consistently prove.

Decanter

About the 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, centered around an 18th-century château and set within a French-style park. His son-in-law, Paul de Bez, completely restructured the vineyard: today, it comprises 64 hectares in a single block, managed since 1984 by his grandsons Vincent and Bruno, who are now joined by Raphaël, representing the fourth generation. A sure bet in Lirac and Tavel.

Guide des Vins Gault & Millau

About the estate:

The Château d'Aqueria dates back to the 16th century. In 1920, it was purchased by Jean Olivier, who brought it to prominence. Today, Vincent and Bruno de Bez oversee the lands of their childhood—no less than 66 hectares. Aside from the Tavel, a renowned rosé for fine dining, the rest of the production, under the Lirac appellation (both red and white), is often noteworthy.

Jancis Robinson

About the 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 the 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.