Domaine Lafond Roc-Epine, Lirac

Made from 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and with 10% Mourvèdre - to add structure - grown on a rocky, sandy plot with pebbles and lime/clay (similar to the stones in Chateauneuf-du-Pape). After fermentation, the wines are matured in stainless steel tanks until the first racking which gives freshness and lift to the wine. Then the wine is finished in new oak barrels for 3 or 4 months to get a smoother tannin and to oxygenate the wine. A powerful and well-built wine, a deep ruby colour with violet tints. A complex nose of vanilla, fruits and griotte-cherries. The attack is rich and firm; the palate expresses long lasting nuances of vanilla and pepper.This is a smooth and rich wine with a very good length.

This wine will drink well for up to 10 years (from harvest) longer than that be careful, according to Jean-Pascal Lafond. Domaine Lafond Roc Epine, named after the Lafond family and a famous race horse (Roquépine) has family winemaking roots going back to 1780 and combines history, old vines and modern techniques. It has been certified organic since 2012. All the grapes in their Lirac are harvested by hand and sorted by eye by the pickers themselves, so the grapes that arrive at the winery are in top condition.