The other bank
Recognised in 1947, Lirac extends across four communes in Gard, just north of Tavel and opposite Châteauneuf-du-Pape, separated from it only by the Rhône. It produces three colours, predominantly red.
Its history is ancient: near Roquemaure, at the edge of the appellation area, phylloxera is thought to have entered France in 1863 with imported American vines. The insect devastated European vineyards for decades.
The same foundations as Châteauneuf
Lirac's rounded-pebble terraces and clay-limestone soils belong to the same geological formation as those on the left bank. The same heat-storing pebbles, sandy safres and more calcareous higher slopes are found here.
The difference lies less in the soil than in reputation: these terroirs received recognition later, and Lirac's name has never attained its neighbour's standing.
Three colours, good value
Grenache-led reds offer dark fruit, garrigue and spice with supple tannins and five to ten years' potential. Whites based on Clairette and Grenache blanc are broad and floral, among the right bank's most interesting whites.
The rosé, lighter than Tavel's, remains fruity and appealing. Serve reds at 16°C and whites and rosés at 11°C.