The Raymond Usseglio domaine is one of the top-producing estates in Chateauneuf du Pape. The estate was originally created by Francis Usseglio who moved to the Rhone from Italy in 1931 and started producing his own wine in 1948. He was succeeded in 1963 by his son Raymond Usseglio who enlarged the area, now bearing his own name, with the help of his mother Danielle.

In 1999, Raymond’s son Stephane took over the domaine and is in now in charge of its operations, cultivating 60 acres, 40 of which are in Chateauneuf du Pape, 12 in Cotes du Rhone, and 7 classified as IGP. The estate practices sustainable and biodynamic farming techniques.

Imperiale is sourced from the estate’s oldest vineyards, majority of which are planted in 1901 and 1902. Yields are extremely low, ensuring a dense and deep wine. The old Grenache vines contribute finesse and elegance so this wine can age for decades.

Allow me to introduce you to the exquisite 2015 Domaine Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale. This stunning red wine hails from the esteemed Chateauneuf du Pape appellation in the Southern Rhone region of France. Crafted by the renowned producer, Domaine Raymond Usseglio, this wine is a true testament to their expertise and commitment to quality.

In the glass, the 2015 Cuvee Imperiale displays a deep ruby color that immediately captivates the eye. This is a proprietary blend, with 95% Grenache and 5% other permitted varieties carefully selected to achieve a harmonious and complex profile. The grapes are partially destemmed and aged exclusively in concrete, allowing the wine to fully express its unique character.

On the nose, this wine unveils a mesmerizing bouquet of blackberry jam, crushed rocks, graphite, and garrigue. These aromas intertwine effortlessly, creating a symphony of scents that are both enticing and sophisticated. As you take your first sip, you will be greeted by a big, rich, and unctuous wine that envelopes the palate with its opulence.

The 2015 Cuvee Imperiale boasts beautiful purity and integrated acidity, which provide balance and structure to the wine. The tannins are present but refined, gradually building up to a memorable finish that lingers on the palate. It is recommended to cellar this wine for another 4-5 years to allow it to further evolve and reach its full potential.

Not only do esteemed wine critics recognize the excellence of this wine, but they also applaud its remarkable qualities. Jeb Dunnuck, from jebdunnuck.com, awarded this wine an outstanding 98 points, praising its tour de force in Grenache. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded it 94 points, acknowledging its ripe fruit and supple tannins. Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com also awarded it 94 points, highlighting its concentration, lush textures, and sweet fruits.

The 2015 Domaine Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale is a wine that commands attention and demands to be savored. With its exceptional quality and undeniable charm, this wine is a true gem in the world of red wines.