Romain Le Bars is one of the Southern Rhône's most compelling contemporary winemakers. Having spent seven years alongside Eric Pfifferling at Domaine L’Anglore, he established his own estate in 2018, working organically across Tavel, Lirac and the surrounding Gard. His wines combine the generosity of the region with remarkable freshness, precision and finesse.

The 2024 Lirac is a blend of 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 15% Cinsault. The grapes undergo two weeks of carbonic maceration before ageing in seasoned oak barrels. An additional 12 months of bottle ageing before release has allowed the wine to develop greater depth and integration.

Dark and expressive, with aromas of liquorice, blackberries, ripe figs and purple fruits. The palate is layered with blackberry leaf, black olives, graphite, sweet spice and a subtle pine needle character. Fine, structured tannins provide definition, while a distinctive mineral and saline edge brings balance to the richness.

A serious, beautifully composed Lirac with impressive depth and ageing potential. Already compelling with a good decant, but certainly worth putting a few bottles away.