# Xavier Vignon Lirac (2019)

- **Producer:** Xavier Vignon
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Grenache, Syrah
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 15.0%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black plum, garrigue, red cherry, black cherry, ripe fruit, spice, vanilla, cloves, earth, leather

## About this wine

The Xavier Vignon Lirac 2019 is a red wine from the Lirac appellation in France's Southern Rhône Valley. Produced by Xavier Vignon, a winemaker known for his blending expertise and deep connection to terroir, the wine is crafted from 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah. The grapes are sourced from multiple parcels within Lirac, with vines averaging 40-50 years in age, grown on soils of rolled pebbles and clay. Lirac is an appellation that offers a similar terroir to its more famous neighbor, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, often at a more accessible price point. Xavier Vignon's winemaking philosophy emphasizes respecting nature and innovation, contributing to the wine's distinctive character.

## Interesting facts

- Lirac shares terroir with Châteauneuf-du-Pape but is often a more budget-friendly discovery.
- Xavier Vignon is known as a 'terroir hunter' and master blender.
- Vine age for this wine averages 40-50 years.
- The wine is made from 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and present tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like lamb and beef, softening their texture. The ripe fruit notes can harmonize with savory dishes, while herbal undertones in the wine can echo aromatics in the food, creating a balanced and integrated dining experience.

## Wine making process

The Xavier Vignon Lirac 2019 is produced using a blend of Grenache (80%) and Syrah (20%), with the grape varieties often co-fermented to enhance aromatic complexity. Fermentation takes place at moderate temperatures. Following fermentation, 30% of the wine undergoes 12 months of aging in barrels, while the remainder is matured in stainless steel tanks or concrete vats. The grapes are hand-harvested, with careful attention paid to ripeness through daily monitoring of polyphenols. Xavier Vignon's approach emphasizes respecting the natural environment and employing innovative techniques in his winemaking.