2020 Pierre Usseglio Cuvee de Mon Aieul Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhone

The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée De Mon Aïeul is also all Grenache but was raised all in demi-muids (I believe all used). Its more ruby/plum color is followed by an incredible bouquet of mulled red and black fruits, sweet Provençal herbs, spice box, and graphite. It's slightly broader and more expansive than the Deux Freres and has a sexy, full-bodied mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. This reminds me a little of the 2006, and while it's already brilliant, I have no doubt it will evolve for 15-20 years in cold cellars. Drink 2022 - 2042.

97 points Jeb Dunnuck jebdunnuck.com

Pierre Usseglio's Cuvée de Mon Aïeul is one of the Southern Rhône's most revered Grenache wines, a tribute to Francis Usseglio, the grandfather who established the family's roots in Châteauneuf du Pape after arriving from Italy in the 1930s. Today, Jean Pierre and Thierry Usseglio continue to craft wines that rank among the appellation's finest, combining old vine intensity with remarkable elegance. Cuvée de Mon Aïeul is produced only in the best vintages from some of the estate's oldest Grenache vines, making it one of the domaine's most sought after releases.

The 2020 vintage is exceptional, delivering both power and freshness. Sourced predominantly from ancient Grenache vines planted on the famous galets roulés of La Crau and other prized parcels, the wine captures the depth and complexity that have made this cuvée legendary among Rhône enthusiasts. Traditional winemaking and careful élevage preserve the vineyard's character while building extraordinary texture and longevity.

Deep garnet crimson in colour, the bouquet is intensely expressive, revealing layers of blackberry, black cherry and raspberry liqueur alongside lavender, thyme and dried rosemary. As the wine opens, notes of licorice, dark chocolate, exotic spice and crushed stone emerge, adding remarkable complexity. The palate is rich and concentrated yet beautifully balanced, delivering waves of dark berry fruit, savoury garrigue and mineral nuance. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity provide energy and structure, while the finish is exceptionally long, unfolding with spice, herbs and floral notes for minutes.

This is a wine worthy of a special occasion. Pair it with slow roasted lamb shoulder, venison loin, beef daube, duck confit or wild mushroom dishes infused with truffle. While already magnificent with extended decanting, it possesses the balance and pedigree to evolve for two decades or more, rewarding patient collectors with extraordinary complexity.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2048.