Lirac

A short hop across the river Rhône from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Lirac was traditionally best-known for its rosés, but increasingly its approachable, full-bodied reds are taking centre stage. Less Grenache-dominated than its neighbours, the current trend for Lirac is towards a greater proportion of Syrah and Mourvèdre which gives the wines a pleasing firmness and a rich, silky spiciness. The wines can normally be enjoyed from 2 years old, up to 10 in some cases.  

Lirac’s full, fragrant, food-friendly whites are surprisingly good and contain a minimum of one-third Clairette with the rest made up from Bourbolenc, Grenache Blanc and up to 25% each (but no more than 30% in total) Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, Ugni Blanc and Picpoul. They are best drunk young but can last for up to 5 years. Rosé production is declining here which is a shame as the rosés are good value with a lovely dry, full-bodied summer fruit palate that is zingier than either neighbouring Tavel (which they resemble) or Provence.