Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul 2012 (750ML)

94 WA / 94 WS / 93 VM

Usseglios 2012 Chteauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Mon Aieul is a beautiful wine that comes mostly from three terroirs: Les Grand Serres (96-year-old vines) in the south, la Crau (78-year-old vines) in the eastern portion of the appellation, and La Guigasse (75-year-old vines), which is roughly in the middle/north central portion of the appellation near Rayas and Pignan. Coming from 100% Grenache and miniscule yields of 22 hectoliters per hectare (which is basically nothing), it offers gorgeous black raspberry, black cherry, herbes de Provence, pepper and Asian spice to go with a medium to full-bodied, silky, refined and elegant style on the palate. Its loaded with character, and while theres no Reserve cuvee in the vintage, this is terrific. Drink bottles through 2027. Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Advocate

This version offers a juicy, brambly core of dark plum, macerated currant, fig and tobacco flavors that show notes of chestnut, singed alder and bittersweet cocoa, with details of warm stone and tar underscoring the finish. Shows ample range, energy and character. Best from 2016 through 2030. 850 cases made. James Molesworth, Wine Spectator

Deep ruby. Pungent aromas of fresh raspberry, cola, floral pastilles and smoky minerals. Silky, sweet and concentrated, showing a supple texture to its sappy black raspberry and candied lavender flavors. A spicy quality contributes lift and bite but this is all about sappy, pure fruit at this stage. Luscious and seamless in texture, finishing with noteworthy punch, echoing florality and supple, late-arriving tannins that meld smoothly with the wines sweet fruit. Josh Raynolds, Vinous Media