Domaine de la Mordorée - Lirac Reine des Bois rouge 2019

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

The estate produces highly expressive wines from the finest vineyards of Vaucluse and Gard. Every effort is made with deep respect for the terroirs, driven by a commitment to crafting wines that live up to their full potential. Madeleine Delorme, alongside her daughter Ambre, continues to work with great care and determination, upholding the spirit of excellence that defines both the estate and this winemaking family. A superb range of salty, full-bodied whites and deep, delicate reds, animated by a refreshing tension and a perfectly balanced structure. The estate is evolving its style toward increasingly refined and precise wines. The fourth star is fast approaching.

Guide Hachette des vins

About the wine:

This red wine, made from equal parts Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, opens with notes of stewed red fruits, damson plums, and mild spices. Bold on the attack, the palate returns to berry flavors (blackcurrant, blackberry) in a finish where the tannins show their strength. Harmonious and full of potential.

About the estate:

Founded in 1986 by Francis Delorme and his son Christophe, the 58-hectare estate (certified organic and biodynamic) is spread across 38 plots and eight municipalities. Following Christophe’s untimely death in 2015, his wife Madeleine and their daughter Ambre took over the reins of the estate. Advocates of low yields, the Delormes produce vintages with disconcerting ease, whether in Tavel—their original stronghold—Lirac, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, or “simple” Côtes-du-Rhône. A must-try.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

James Suckling

About the wine:

Incredibly fresh and pure aromas of wild berries and herbs waft from the glass of this rich yet beautifully balanced Lirac. The tannins, fruit, and alcohol are beautifully integrated, resulting in a full-bodied yet silky and fresh palate. The long, velvety finish leaves you wanting more.

Jeb Dunnuck

About the wine:

A blend of 40% Syrah and 30% Mourvèdre and Grenache, the 2019 Lirac La Reine Des Bois reveals a deep purple hue and a bold, mineral-driven bouquet of blackcurrant, raspberry, ground pepper, graphite, and smoked meat. The Syrah dominates the nose at the moment, but on the palate, the Grenache’s sensuality comes to the fore; it is full-bodied, with a smooth texture, excellent tannins, and a lovely finish. There are enough tannins and underlying structure to allow for 2 to 3 years of bottle aging, but it should age well for 10 to 15 years. It remains a contender for the vintage’s best Lirac and easily outshines many great Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.