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The wine-growing zone, which currently covers about 700 hectares, is one of the oldest in France; vines were already grown here 2000 years ago. The wines of the region achieved fame especially during the Avignonese papacy and beyond until the 16th century.
Today, Lirac is mainly known as a cheaper alternative to the famous rosés of its southern neighbour, but unlike Tavel, the AOP here also applies to red and white wines, which often turn out much more interesting than the rosés. Although the red wines rarely reach the weight of a Châteauneuf-du-Pape from the directly opposite bank, they are generally somewhat firmer and more tart than the usually more hedonistic growths at the south-eastern end of the Rhone, which makes them remarkably independent representatives of the growing region.
White wine plays only a very insignificant role in the Lirac in terms of volume, but it can be remarkably good. The reason for this is probably the somewhat higher altitude of the vineyards compared to many subzones in the east, with their lime-rich soil. Even the stronger versions usually have firmness, freshness and usually also clear, light minerality.
We have currently tasted 39 wines of the AOP Lirac, which we present here and, as always, also in a PDF. Further links to the wines and producers of the Lirac can be found by clicking on the respective headings.