2007 Lirac la Dame Rousse

The outstanding 2007 Lirac La Dame Rousse, a blend of equal parts Syrah and Grenache, reveals a dense purple color as well as a gorgeous, sweet nose of creme de cassis, crushed rocks, violets, and licorice. This layered, full-bodied Lirac could easily pass for a Chateauneuf du Pape priced twice as high. Drink it over the next 4-5 years. Winemaker and owner Christophe Delorme and his brother, Fabrice, have made Domaine de la Mordoree one of the bright, shining estates of Chateauneuf du Pape. Readers should definitely check out this property’s white wines, especially the Cotes du Rhones and Liracs, as well as the gorgeous red Liracs. Even the bargain-priced, well-made wines called Naissance, which include a red as well as a rose vin de pays, are worth seeking out. Importer: Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9228

A smoky, meaty wine, the 2007 Domaine de la Mordorée Lirac La Dame Rousse exhibits ripe dark fruit and loamy earth aromas that carry into a medium to full bodied palate. There’s beautiful fruit as well as a serious tannic backbone. Drink this beauty over the next 6 to 8+ years.

50% Grenache, 50% Syrah Very tight and tarry. Dry finish. Awfully young with tannins dominating the fruit. (JR)