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Domaine Pierre Usseglio- An Italian Outpost in Chateauneuf du Pape
In 1931 Francis Usseglio left Italy and went to Chateauneuf du Pape and got a job working in the vineyards. In 1948 he purchased his own property. Francis' son Pierre inherited his father's property and now the third generation, Pierre's sons Jean-Pierre and Thierry, are in charge of Domaine Pierre Usseglio.
Domaine Pierre Usseglio consists of 55 acres divided into 15 different parcels in Chateauneuf du Pape. Half of the vines are about 60 years old and the rest are about 30 years old. The Red Chateauneuf du Pape is usually made from 75 % Grenache and the rest Syrah, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. It is aged in oak casks for 12-18 months depending of the vintage. The result is terrifically concentrated yet balanced wines that reveal layers of aromatic and flavor complexity.
The "Cuvee de Mon Aieul" bottling is 100% Grenache, dedicated by Jean-Pierre and Thierry to the memory of Francis Usseglio, their "Aieul", an affectionate French word for grandfather. Reviews Robert Parker 100 Points
There are 1,800 cases of the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Mon Aieul (100% tank-aged Grenache). It represents an awesome naked/virginal expression of Grenache from three vineyard parcels planted in sand, clay, and limestone soils. After tasting this wine on five separate occasions, I can state with certainty, it has the most saturated color of any Mon Aieul produced to date. Moreover, its perfume of blueberry liqueur, black raspberries, licorice, roasted meat juices, and lavender is incredible. Full-bodied power, a multilayered mouthfeel, tremendous purity, and awesome concentration put this wine in a class by itself. This sensational Chateauneuf du Pape is still very young, and 3-4 years of cellaring is required. It should be a modern day legend and last for nearly two decades.
Wine Spectator 94 Points
Ripe but streamlined, with gorgeous layers of crushed black cherry, macerated currant and warm fig flavors that stretch over fresh minerality and a long finish filled with tobacco, spice and bittersweet cocoa. This has energy and drive to go with its ripeness. Best from 2010 through 2022. 1,500 cases made.–JM
International Wine Cellar 94 Points
Vivid ruby. Exotic, complex nose displays scents of raspberry, smoky herbs, anise and gingerbread. Supple red and dark berry preserve flavors are seamless and alluringly sweet, and nicely lifted by tangy minerality. Manages to be both rich and lively, finishing with impressive clarity and persistent spiciness. | 
