Domaine de la Mordorée - Lirac La Reine des Bois rouge 2020

The estate produces highly expressive wines from the finest vineyards in the Vaucluse and Gard regions. Every effort is made with deep respect for the terroirs, driven by a commitment to producing 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 briny, full-bodied whites and deep, delicate reds, animated by a refreshing vibrancy and a perfectly balanced profile. The estate is evolving its style toward wines that are increasingly refined and precise. The fourth star is fast approaching.

Round and moderately full-bodied, with well-balanced oak that adds a touch of brightness to the fruit. Good length and depth, ripe, with a slight warmth from the alcohol. Delicious and fresh, this wine is very enjoyable. Impressive for a Lirac!

This red wine is made from Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, with only 15% of the juice aged in barrels. On the nose, an explosion of fresh strawberries and blackcurrants, nuanced with a hint of cherry liqueur and cumin. The palate is dense, smooth, full-bodied, and fruity, lingering into a subtly toasty finish, with a well-balanced acidity that carries through from start to finish. A Lirac with character.

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 their vintages with disconcerting ease, whether in Tavel—their original stronghold—Lirac, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, or “simple” Côtes-du-Rhône. A must-try.

Discerning wine lovers know that this cuvée is one of the winery’s star wines. The 2020 Lirac La Reine des Bois (made from roughly equal parts Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah) is a rich and intense wine, with intriguing aromas of crushed stone, pencil shavings, ripe cherries, and vibrant blueberries. Full-bodied and powerful, it remains silky and elegant on the finish.

A core of violets is enveloped by blackberries, red currants, black licorice, thyme, and mint, all delicately framed by warm baking spices. The palate is silky, with dark fruits taking center stage. Absolutely delicious and captivating, this wine should age well through 2035+.

The nose is fragrant with black and blue berries, with delicate notes of licorice, sandalwood, and bergamot. Rich and concentrated, yet decidedly dry. The fine tannins have a wonderful bitter chocolate flavor and carry this full-bodied wine across the palate with surprising liveliness. The finish is very long and powdery, with great spicy complexity. A blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.

More full-bodied, the 2020 Lirac La Reine De Bois displays extraordinary purity in its aromas of black raspberry and darker cherry, violet, flowers, and savory garrigue. It is medium-bodied, with fine tannins, a smooth, pure, and magnificent texture, and an excellent finish. This is a very good Lirac (probably the best in the appellation) that will continue to age for a decade.