For a cuvée that sees a lot of barrique, this is relatively understated on the nose, letting the rich, voluptuous layers of fruit slowly envelop the palate. Black cherry and plum notes are accented by hints of chocolate and baking spice. Although this is approachable now, it should easily last through 2020.
— J.C.
(12/15/2009)
A dark, brooding wine, packed with wood and dry tannin flavors. At the same time, the fruit is huge, with chocolate, dark plum, cassis and sweetness. This is a dense wine that is going to be hugely impressive after 5 years of aging. Imported by Kysela Père et Fils.
— R.V.
(12/31/2005)
A blend of one-third each Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah, year-in and year-out this is among Lirac's top wines, if not the top. In 2003, it's rich, ripe and a touch alcoholic, but still boasts well-defined aromas of plum and spice. In the mouth, it's like liquid chocolate fudge--velvety, yet never ponderous or heavy. Ready to drink now, but should last up to 10 years.
— J.C.
(11/15/2006)
As usual at this young age, the new oak used for aging this cuvée stands out a bit, giving the plummy fruit aromas a cedary, menthol-tinged veneer. But on the palate the wine shines, from its expansive, creamy mouthfeel to the captivating flavors of brandied cherries and powdered cinnamon. Drink now–2020.
— J.C.
(7/1/2012)
From its lovely bouquet of dried flowers and spices to its voluptuous mouthfeel, this knockout has it all. Perfectly ripe (not overripe) black cherries form the foundation, garnished by complex notes of garrigue, and framed by a firm, ageworthy structure. Why pay more for Châteauneuf-du-Pape when you can drink this now and over the next decade?
— J.C.
(11/15/2006)
Not quite the superb value this was in earlier vintages, the 2006 “Queen of the Woods” is still an excellent wine, from its knockout nose of cedar, baking spices, blueberry and black cherry to its full, rounded mouthfeel and long, softly tannic finish. Tasted again several months later, the oak is less apparent, suggesting at last five years or so of aging potential.
— J.C.
(12/15/2009)
O.K., so it’s a New World-ish blend of fruit and oak, but leaving stylistic prejudices aside, it’s also a darn fine wine. Black cherry fruit balances the cedar and vanilla nicely, while the texture is rich yet supple and the finish lingers a good long time. Drink now–2018.
— J.C.
(10/1/2011)
A terrific expression of its appellation, the 2007 La Dame Rousse from Domaine de la Mordorée starts off a bit tight and minerally on the nose, then explodes on the palate with layers of cherries, peaches, warm stones and dried spices. It’s full-bodied and rich, with a long, spice-driven finish. Treat it like a light red, serving it with charcuterie or simple…
— J.C.
(10/1/2008)