Liraс WIne Region Guide

Lirac is a wine-growing region in France that produces wine along the right bank of the Rhône River. Lirac wine appellation is known for producing 3 types of wine— white, rosé, and red. In 2009, there were around 140 million bottles of wine in production. Lirac is one of 13 crus in the Rhone valley.

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Where is Lirac wine region?

Lirac is a small village located south of France, on the west banks of the Rhone in the department of Gard. Across the Rhone river lies the Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOC which is around 10km west of the region. The wine region encompasses the communes of Lirac, Saint Laurent des Arbres, Saint Géniès de Comolas, and Roquemaure which forms a girdle around the appellation. The region is very much similar to that of Chateauneuf-du-Pape both in grape varieties and climate.

History of Lirac Wine Appellation

Lirac's wine history dates back to Roman times and it is known that the region didn't gain a lot of recognition until the 18th Century. With Appellation Status granted to Cotes du Rhone in 1937, Lirac followed ten years later. The wines from the Lirac wine region were famous in the middle ages and were often admired by the nobles and even served to Pope Innocent IV, Henry IV, and Louis XIV. The region produced in high volume during the 18th century and most of it was exported using the Rhone river. The region was affected by the Phylloxera infestation in 1863.

Terrior of Lirac Wine Appellation

The terroir is free-draining and produces powerful wines with well-structured tannins and good aging potential. These vineyards lie in the middle of the Rhein river's ancient alluvial terraces and are divided by red clay that was deposited here as it was carried down from the Alps. Consist of sand mixed with stones from many landslides.

Lirac Wine Characteristics

Lirac wines are pressed from various grape varieties and one such variety is the Grenache noir grape. This gives the wine spicy and fruity flavors that also have strong raspberry and strawberry notes. The Grenache grapes also produce wines of above-average alcohol content, and Lirac wine must be at least 11.5% alcohol by volume. The region produces red, rose, and white wines. The red wines are very much similar to that of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, just a bit soft. Rose wines from Lirac are similar to that of Tavel.

Food to pair with Lirac Wine

Coq au vin

This French classic and satisfying stew takes very little effort to make. The internal organs of a rooster are blended with cashew, carrot, garlic, thyme, bay leaves, parsley and mushroom stem. A hefty dose of red wine is also added for more flavor. Slow cooking over low heat allows your meat to absorb all those delicious flavors and become tender. This simple "drunk chicken" dish is often accompanied by steamed or boiled potatoes and noodles. It is very delicious and pairs well with red Lirac wine.

Foie gras poêlé

Pan-seared foie gras is a French dish that is typically prepared with a thick slice of foie gras and seared in duck fat. It is seasoned simply with salt and enjoyed on special occasions. Recommended to pair foie gras poêlé with Lirac dry wines.

Places to visit near Lirac Wine Appellation

Pont de Roquemaure

There is a long bridge joining the mainland to the island that spans across an important traffic artery on the way out of town. The bridge has good space for cyclists, since bike-last traffic crosses via one of the adjacent bridges.

Le Castellas

A little castle where kids can play is a nice addition to the garden. It provides an area for them to explore and have fun. It is a great place to visit with your kids.

Route panoramique Vallée du Rhone

On this cycle path, you will find beautiful views over the Rhone valley, the village of Laudun, and the wine-filled Chateauneuf du Pape.

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