Lirac Wine
Richard Maby enjoys considerable vine holdings in the appellation of Lirac (alonside his holdings in neighbouring Tavel) where he produces a terrific triumvirate of wines. Interestingly, red wine dominates production here, as Tavel must furnish the bulk of the rosé requirement. All three wines are produced under his 'La Fermade' label and have proved consistently reliable over numerous vintages. His red Lirac is usually made from around 55% Grenache Noir, 25% Syrah and 20% Mourvèdre that are vinified in vats and then raised in oak barrels of various sizes and ages. The final blend is normally approachable from release but can age well for 5 to 10+ years. With a deep purple colour, forest fruit bouquet and concentrated core of black fruit with peppery undertones and fine-grained tannins, it is a versatile, warming wine that pairs well with slow-cooked, stews, grilled red meat and wild mushroom dishes. Its sibling Lirac rosé wine is made from 90% Cinsault and 10% Grenache Noir that are grown on soils of alluvial deposits, sand and gravel. It has a coral-pink colour, raspberry and redcurrant aromas and a mid-weight red fruit palate with a long, elegant finish. Completing a commendable range is Richard's Lirac blanc - a judicious blend of around 55% Grenache Blanc, 15% Piquepoul and 25% Clairette. With citrus scents and a sensuous stone-fruit palate, it makes an uplifting apéritif or partner to seafood.
IGP Vin de Pays des Coteaux du Pont du Gard
Covering part of the Gard département on the western bank of the Rhône, this large former Vin de Pays is named after the historic Roman Pont du Gard aqueduct constructed in the 1st century to bring spring water to the city and newly planted vineyards. At the vinous confluence of the Languedoc, Rhône and Provence wine regions, it relies heavily on Southern French staples like Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre alongside international varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay whether blended or as single varietals.
Broadly Mediterranean in climate, like the Rhône valley to the east, the Mistral keeps things fresh and its limestone and sand-rich soils aid drainage from heavy rainstorms.
