Lirac `Moon Apoge` Domaine des Carabiniers 2020

Country
France
Region
Southern Rhone
Producer
Domaine des Carabiniers
Grape(s)
Grenache (50%)
Mourvèdre (25%)
Syrah (25%)
Type
Red
Style
Complex
Oaked Style
Lightly oaked
Body Style
Medium bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Not applicable
Alcohol Content
13%
Closure Style
Cork
Organic/Biodynamic
Biodynamic
Sustainable
Yes-sustainable practices
Vegetarian/Vegan
Vegetarian
Yes
Vegan
Yes
Allergens
Sulphites
Yes
Milk
No
Egg
No

Region

The Southern Rhone is home to many famous appellations with a great variety of soils and microclimates, though in general sees ideal growing conditions that are warm and dry, with the Mistral wind proving a defining feature. Grenache forms the backbone of southern Rhône blends, including Châteauneuf du Pape, Gigondas and Vacqueyras. With a range of varieties grown, the region sees a range of styles produced from quality red and white wines to the aromatic dessert wine Muscat de Beaumes de Venise.

Producer

In the 14th century, the papal community lived in Avignon (Palais des Papes) and the region was guarded by Italian mounted guards - the Carabinieri. Since that time, the area has been known as `Carabiniers`. Domaine des Carabiniers has been family run for four generations. The vineyard was developed at the beginning of the 20th century by the Leperchois family. Christian Leperchois built the current winery in the 60`s. Now, Magali and Fabien run the domaine which converted to organic viticulture in 1997 and then to biodynamic viticulture in 2009. They vinify with natural yeasts, without the use of chemical products and with very low sulphur additions.
Tasting Notes
Lirac is a large appellation on the western side of southern Rhone. It is known for its full bodied reds, similar in style to wines from Chateauneuf-du-Pape just across the Rhone river. This biodynamic Lirac has a purity of fruit characteristic of the region with notes of spices, liqourice and garrigue. A heady, powerful and hearty wine.
Food
A good accompaniment to pates, grilled or roast meats, charcuterie and also excellent with spicy food.
Media
Robert Parker awarded 92 points, Wine Enthusiast 90 points and Decanter 93 points.