Nicholas Pearce Wines continue their virtual tasting series from the Rhône Valley…
Just across the Rhone from the beautiful vineyards of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the Lirac appellation extends itself on the low hills alongside the river.
The history of Château de Montfaucon dates back to the 11th century when the castle’s first tower was built. The castle’s role in history was strategic; the Rhône River was the border between the French Kingdom and the Holy Roman German Empire. Montfaucon was one of a line of castles and fortresses along the Rhône River constructed to guard the border, and later to tax ships carrying goods up and down the River.
Following his agriculture studies in France and California (UC Davis), Rodolphe de Pins makes wine at the renowned estates of Henschke in Barossa and Vieux Telegraphe in Châteauneuf du Pape. Longing to return home, he took over the family estate of Montfaucon in 1995, rebuilt the winery and made his first vintage.
Since 1995 the estate has expanded to extend over 60 hectares of vines.
Chateau de Montfaucon wines are made from organic certified local grapes varieties:
Comtesse Madeleine Lirac Blanc 2018 – $29.95
This is a blend of Marsanne, Clairette, Grenache Blanc and Picpoul.
The grapes are hand-picked and directly pressed, followed by a natural cold settling for 12 hours. It ages for 8 months in oak barrels. It also remains in the bottle for 6 months before being released.
It’s creamy and lush, with hints of honeyed tangerine, melon and lime. Backed by a palate that’s medium to full-bodied, slowly fading in intensity on the finish. A great example of how deliciously amazing Lirac can be.
What to drink with a Lirac Blanc? This wine and the Mediterranean flavours of Bouillabaisse are a super match! It also pairs beautifully with poulet au citron et lavande, another iconic recipe from the south of France.
Lirac Rouge, Grenache Syrah Cinsault 2016 – $26.95
This is a blend of Grenache (60%), Syrah (30%) and Cinsault (10%) planted in very antique terraces of rolling pebbles. The grapes are hand-picked and destemmed. Macerated for about 15 days and aged in concrete tanks for 18 months.
A richer, heartier Lirac for those cool nights! Lovely aromatics with notes of lavender, cinnamon dusted black cherries and plums. Some bright acidity and slightly dusty tannin provide some nice structure making this full-bodied wine a fantastic pairing for hearty dishes like stews and roasts.
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