Xavier Vignon : Lirac 2021

Drawn from 15 different parcels in the appellation, Xavier Vignon's 2021 Lirac is a 60-40 blend of Genache and Syrah, with just a portion of the Syrah going into barrel for maturation. On the nose, the wine offers up raspberry fruit with attractive herbal shadings and a hint of vanilla, while in the mouth, it's medium to full-bodied, smooth and supple, then silky and elegant on the finish.

Solid, densely dark-fruited and muscular Lirac. Aromas of blackberries, dark plums, dried herbs, bark and baking spices on the nose follow through to a full body with plush tannins. Textured and slightly chewy on the concentrated core of dark berries and spices. Similar finish. Try after 2025.

60% Grenache, 40% Syrah. The Grenache is vinified and aged in concrete vats. 30% of the Syrah is aged in oak barrels for 12 months; the rest is aged in concrete vats. Cask/tank sample. Tasted blind. Juicy nose – very ripe fruits, sweet spice. The palate is rich, sleek and glossy with warming alcohol throughout; the tannins are quite fine but the alcohol somewhat takes over. Rich and opulent style. (AC)