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Tasting notes
The 2010 Lirac La Dame Rousse, which is an equal-parts blend of Grenache and Syrah from 40-year-old vines. This is a blockbuster Lirac and one of the reference points for the appellation. (The greatest Lirac made, the Mordoree La Reine des Bois, is over $40.00, but the 2010 is rated 95 for those want to spend the money). The 2010 Lirac La Dame Rousse is a knock-out wine. Opaque ruby/purple, with notes of graphite, blackberry and black currant fruit along with hints of raspberries, roasted meats, licorice and forest floor, this is a powerful Chateauneuf du Pape look-alike that sells for a remarkably fair price. Drink it over the next decade. I will have my reviews of the more expensive wines from Domaine de la Mordoree (in excess of $25) in the October issue, which will include their stunning 2010s and their as-of-yet untasted 2011s, except for those early-bottled wines whose reviews follow. Importer:Fran Kysela, Kysela Pere et Fils, Winchester, VA; Tel. (540) 722-9228; Fax (540) 722-9258; www.kysela.com
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
An even split of Syrah and Grenache and the estate’s entry level Lirac, the 2010 Domaine de la Mordorée Lirac La Dame Rousse is a beauty! Displaying an vibrant, opaque purple color as well as smoking aromatics of black cherry, earth, charcoal, mineral, and hints of chocolate in its full-bodied, rich, borderline lush profile. Showing uncommon richness for this cuvee, this beautifully put together Lirac will be approachable on release, yet shine for 5-7 years.
50% Grenache, 50% Syrah. Very sweet and seductive. Almost ready already! Lovely fresh fruit on the front palate and then on the finish, massive fine tannins. (JR)