"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."

"Jam-packed with dark blackberry, currant and boysenberry fruit, but cuts like a knife, thanks to riveting acidity, a blaze of singed iron and a long, charcoal-studded finish. A lovely lingering note of singed bay leaf adds a mouthwatering echo."

"Intensely perfumed, sexy bouquet of wild strawberry, raspberry, kirsch, Asian spices and potpourri. Suave, silky red berry flavors display liqueur-like depth and are nicely framed by fine-grained tannins. A sneaky note of licorice builds and carries through the long, sweet finish of this precise wine."