November Imported Wine: 2009 DOMAINE ANDRÉ MÉJAN ‘Les Queyrades’ Rhone Blend, Lirac, FRANCE
Domanie André Méjan was founded by Valéry Taulier in 1920, the son-in-law André Méjan was the 2nd generation, and since 2007, the 3rd generation Florence Mélier, has been running the domaine. A total of 36 hectares belong to the domaine. The vineyards are certified agriculture biologique since 2012. This is the 3rd generation to produce Les Queyrades Lirac at Domaine Méjan-Taulier. The vineyards, now over 60 years old, are located on a rugged terroir of rolled stones. Harvested at full maturity, the grapes are completely destemmed. A long, slow vinification process is followed by at least 2 years of cellaring (in stainless steel tanks) at the domaine before release.
History of Lirac and its Relation to Domaine André Méjan: Lirac is a wine-growing Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in the department of Gard, situated in the low hills along the right bank of the Rhône river in the southern Rhône wine region of France. It is named after the town of Lirac. Bordering on the neighboring cru of Tavel AOC, a rosé-only cru in the next village, Lirac is one of the 13 crus of the Rhône valley family. On the opposite river bank is the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard. Domaine André Méjan’s main production is Tavel (about 150,000 bottles per year). Wines from the other appellations account for about 25,000 bottles of the production.
Red wines are made from Grenache Noir (minimum 30%), Syrah and Mourvèdre (minimum of 25% together), Cinsault, and Carignan (maximum 10%). The style of red Lirac often resembles a soft Côtes du Rhône-Villages, but the more ambitious wines are often similar to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Varietal: 30% Grenache, 25% Cinsault, 25% Syrah and 20% Mourvedre Alcohol: 13.5% by volume
Tasting Notes: Nice bright colour. On the nose, aromas of red fruits and moka. Well balanced on the palate, fleshy and with a lot of finesse. Toasted and grilled notes add to the complexity of this wine. A classic vintage.
Food Pairings: This wine pairs very well with sausage, lamb, veal, and definitely turkey. Enjoy this wine with your Thanksgiving day meal!
Jim Lutfy’s thoughts: “Loaded with spicy and earthy tones. Hints of mushrooms and dried cherries. A frugal wine buyer’s nirvana. The wine really over achieves! A smart man’s Chateauneuf-du-Pape.”-JL