Pierre Usseglio Cuvee de Mon Aieul Chateauneuf Du Pape - 2018 (750ml)

99 Points, Editor's Choice – Wine Enthusiast “Streaks of black fig and boysenberry preserves extend from nose to finish in this pure-fruited varietal Grenache sourced from 75- to 90-year-old vines. Fermented in whole clusters, it's ripe but scintillating in freshness, accented by crushed thyme, stone and salt. Soft, almost feathery in tannins, it's a voluptuous wine with finesse and grace. Irresistible young, the wine will likely improve well past 2035.” — Anna Lee C. Iijima

94 Points - Wine Advocate "While the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul does show a touch of oak influence on the nose, it also shows more freshness and energy than the regular cuvée. All Grenache, all whole cluster and aged in used demi-muids, there are waves of ripe raspberries and black cherries, drizzled with dark chocolate and spice. Full-bodied and velvety, it's a big, plush, welcoming mouthful of super ripe Grenache that avoids going completely over the top.

Ripeness and richness are still in vogue at this domaine, capably looked after by brothers Jean-Pierre and Thierry, with increasing assistance from Thierry's son, Gregory. In my opinion, these are wines that often show best in their plush, succulent youth, because when the opulent fruit begins to evolve and fade, it allows room for the alcohol and tannins to spread out and take over. This year, Thierry presented an exciting new amphora cuvée that incorporates all 18 of the permitted varieties and color variations. Will something like this be the way forward for Châteauneuf du Pape when faced with continuing climate change? It's certainly something to think about." (Published: Sep 24, 2020)