France — wine

Lirac

A small, underrated southern Rhone AOC on the Gard side of the river, opposite Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Lirac produces excellent red, white, and rose wines from Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah, Clairette, and Bourboulenc. Once overshadowed by its famous Tavel neighbour for rose, Lirac is increasingly recognised for its serious, age-worthy reds at prices significantly below Chateauneuf.

Year Rating Notes
2023 Hot Rhone season with excellent Grenache ripeness; reds of unusual depth and white wines of surprising freshness
2022 Very good southern Rhone vintage; reds of structure and fruit with aging potential
2021 Cooler year; fine whites and elegant rosés, reds slightly lighter than typical
2020 Outstanding Rhone vintage; finest Lirac reds in recent memory with exceptional concentration
2019 Classic vintage with good balance; food-friendly across all colours