Domaine Maby - Lirac La Fermade rouge 2023

In the historic region of Tavel, the Maby family produces wines of consistent quality—always authentic, pleasant, and full-bodied. Led by the dynamic Richard Maby, the estate continues to evolve, with the wines gaining in precision each year. The vineyards are located in the municipalities of Tavel, the Lirac plateau, and the neighboring Côtes du Rhône. Reasonable prices and the consistent quality of the wines make this estate a safe bet in today’s market—across all three wine types.

Full-bodied and very ripe, with deep, rich aromas of blackberry and blackcurrant. Truly juicy and delicious, with well-balanced alcohol and a lovely freshness despite its rather moderate acidity. It has a pleasantly full-bodied texture and offers excellent value for the price.

This estate, known for its consistently high-quality wines—particularly its Lirac in all three varieties and its Tavel—was founded in 1950 by Armand Maby. In 2005, his grandson Richard took over the vineyard, which spans 53 hectares, mostly situated on the rounded pebbles of the Vallongue plateau; the vines are cultivated “naturally” and have been in the process of converting to organic farming since 2019. Since 2011, the eminent Rhône oenologist Philippe Cambie has been advising the estate.

An enticing nose with aromas of bright red fruits and waxy cherry. The palate is concentrated, with tight, firm tannins that provide structure and intensity. A hint of smoked meat emerges, then unfolds into a dense, ripe, and rich finish—a well-crafted and very balanced wine throughout the tasting.

Made from 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 20% Mourvèdre, and aged in concrete tanks for 15 months, the 2023 Lirac La Fermade offers aromas of blackberries, raspberries, pepper, and violets, along with notes of sandalwood and Provençal spices. It is a medium-bodied, well-balanced, and elegant wine, with fine tannins and a lovely finish. This is an excellent Lirac to enjoy over the next 7 to 8 years. Best enjoyed between 2025 and 2033.