2009 Domaine de la Mordorée "La Reine des Bois" Lirac

SKU #1109148 92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Domaine de la Mordoree remains the reference point for how good Lirac can be. It is an appellation with tremendous potential, and a number of Chateauneuf du Pape estates are buying up vineyards in the appellation. The 2009 Lirac Cuvee de la Reine des Bois is another star from Christophe Delorme. Loads of kirsch, black currant and crushed rock notes along with a hint of spring flowers are all present in this dense purple, medium to full-bodied, delicious wine, which should drink nicely for 7-8 years. (10/ 2011)

92 points Wine Enthusiast

As usual at this young age, the new oak used for aging this cuvée stands out a bit, giving the plummy fruit aromas a cedary, menthol-tinged veneer. But on the palate the wine shines, from its expansive, creamy mouthfeel to the captivating flavors of brandied cherries and powdered cinnamon. Drink now-2020. (7/ 2012)

91 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

(made from one-third each grenache, mourvedre and syrah): Deep ruby. Spicy red berries and cherry pit on the fragrant, spice-accented nose. Sappy, deeply pitched red fruit and floral pastille flavors show very good energy and pick up a smoky quality with aeration. Finishes dry and precise, with lingering notes of redcurrant and bitter cherry. (5/ 2012)

91 points Wine Spectator

Ripe but very pure, exhibiting a beautiful mix of damson plum, linzer torte and blackberry fruit all laced with alluring notes of black tea and iron. This is supple on the finish, but with latent length. Should be a good, short-term ager. Seems less reliant on flashy toast than previous vintages. Drink now through 2012. (6/ 2011)

K&L Notes

Composition is equal parts Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre. 14% abv.