2016 Lirac Reine des Bois
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Tasting notes
One-third each Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah, the 2016 Lirac La Reine des Bois continues this cuvée's tradition of overdelivering. Blueberry and mulberry fruit abound, dusted with cocoa and cinnamon. Full-bodied, rich and dense, it offers considerable aging potential, should you have the fortitude to resist it. It's juicy and long on the finish, where it picks up hints of licorice and baking spices. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.
Critic scores
Average Score
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
One of the finest releases from not only this appellation but the entire Southern Rhône, the 2016 Lirac La Reine Des Bois is a unique blend of close to equal parts Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre that’s brought up in 30% used barrels, the balance in stainless steel. It literally jumps from the glass with loads of blackberry and currant fruits, graphite, charred meats, and peppery herbs. Deeply colored, medium to full-bodied, with sensational purity, give bottles a year or two and enjoy through 2028. It’s another brilliant wine from this estate that’s landed on both feet after the passing of winemaker Christophe Delorme in 2015.
Violet, raspberry, red cherry – lots of primary flavour on the nose, accompanied by bitter chocolate and a very slight iodine character. Serious and savoury in flavour, but with drinkable structure thanks to moderate tannin and medium body. (RH)
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Product details
Grenache/ Garnacha , Syrah / Shiraz, Mourvedre/Monastrell/Mataro
Red
Dry