Domaine de la Mordorée - Lirac La Reine des Bois blanc 2021

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.

Decanter

About the wine:

There is a hint of oak on the nose and palate that helps integrate the tart citrus notes and adds a touch of spice, but it is far from overpowering. The palate is full-bodied, with the classic richness typical of Lirac. It finishes with a hint of grapefruit bitterness. Good acidity. Contains Marsanne, Viognier, and Piquepoul.

Guide Hachette des vins

About the wine:

This Lirac features six grape varieties, led by Grenache Blanc, and exudes aromas of linden and acacia against a toasty, spicy backdrop. Generous, full-bodied, and rich yet never heavy, the palate is enveloped in spicy (saffron) and creamy flavors, perfectly balanced by a long, fresh finish. A true expression of a southern white wine.

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, in Lirac, in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, or in “simple” Côtes-du-Rhône. A must-try.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

Only 10% of the 2021 Lirac Blanc La Reine des Bois was aged in oak barrels, resulting in subtle toasted notes while allowing the pear and white peach flavors to fully shine through. It is medium-bodied, fresh, and crisp, yet retains an appealing silky texture and a long finish.

Jancis Robinson

About the wine:

Tasted blind. The nose offers almond aromas with a rich, creamy, and nutty character—vanilla and fennel. The palate is tight, with notes of herbs, pear skin, and anise. The broad, textured finish is remarkably fresh. Notes of apricot emerge toward the end.

James Suckling

About the wine:

Bursting with stone fruit aromas and a hint of mango, this is a rich yet crisp and refreshing dry white from the southern Rhône. Good concentration and a touch of tannin lend it body and depth.

Jeb Dunnuck

About the wine:

I loved the 2021 Lirac Blanc—one of those white wines that truly work wonders. Beautiful notes of pear, white flowers, citrus, and hints of salt and minerality define this gem. It’s medium-bodied, with superb balance, well-integrated acidity, and a truly lovely finish. Bravo. Best enjoyed within the next 2 to 4 years.