Domaine Pierre Usseglio was founded in Chateauneuf-du-Pape by Pierre’s father, Francis in 1948. Pierre eventually took the reigns and, since 1999, his children have run the estate. The Domaine holds 15 small vineyard plots throughout the AOC, totaling 22 hectares. Only one of those hectares is planted to white grapes. The remainder, with a mix of rocky and sandy soils, represent approximately 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 6% Mourvedre, 5% Cinsault, 2% Counoise and 2% Muscardin. Domaine Pierre Usseglio makes three red wines and one white.

Cuvee de Mon Aieul is a selection of grapes from vines 75 to 90 years old. They come from plots on La Crau, les Bédines or les Serres, where the soils are sand and stone, covered in the regions famous galets. A pure and concentrated wine, the nose is very complex with notes of raspberries, licorice and spices. It is a powerful wine yet retains great elegance, and is at its best between 10 and 12 years of age.

Introducing the 2017 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul, a remarkable red wine hailing from the renowned Chateauneuf du Pape appellation in the Southern Rhone region of France. This exquisite wine, crafted by esteemed producer Pierre Usseglio, is a true testament to the artistry and passion that goes into winemaking.

In the glass, this wine showcases a deep, alluring red color that hints at its intensity and complexity. The nose is immediately greeted by an array of enticing aromas, including licorice, chocolate, and super ripe plums. These aromas are further enhanced by delicate hints of spice and floral notes, creating a captivating olfactory experience.

On the palate, the 2017 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul reveals its full-bodied and velvety nature. The wine is rich and almost painfully intense, a result of the reduced yields by coulure to only about six hectoliters per hectare. It is crafted exclusively from Grenache grapes, using the whole cluster fermentation method to extract maximum flavor and complexity.

Renowned wine critic Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine an impressive score of 94 points, praising its steadfast character and long, warm finish. Similarly, Jeb Dunnuck bestowed a remarkable score of 97 points, describing it as an extraordinary wine with a mammoth bouquet of kirsch liqueur, black raspberries, ground pepper, white flowers, and spice. He further commended its opulence and silky tannins, declaring it a magical, elegant, and layered wine.

With a 15.5% alcohol content, this wine possesses both power and finesse. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now or cellared for further development. Wine Spectator awarded it an exceptional score of 96 points, noting its lush and inviting feel, waves of warmed raspberry reduction, and perfectly embedded acidity. They suggest that while it can be enjoyed now, the wine will continue to evolve and reach its peak from 2023 through 2040.

In conclusion, the 2017 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul is a wine of outstanding quality and distinction. With its mesmerizing aromas, velvety texture, and exceptional reviews from esteemed critics, it is a wine that demands attention and appreciation. Whether savored on its own or paired with gourmet cuisine, this wine is sure to leave a lasting impression.