The 2018 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape is a red wine from the renowned Rhone region of France, specifically the Southern Rhone sub-region. This proprietary blend consists of 55% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 15% Mourvèdre, and a small balance of Cinsault. The wine has an alcohol content of 15.0% and is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
According to Jeb Dunnuck, the 2018 vintage is a "classic cuvée of the estate," characterized by a "gorgeous perfume of kirsch and blackberry fruits" with additional notes of "spiced meat, charcuteries, flowers, and garrigue." He describes it as medium to full-bodied, round, and elegant, noting its "sweet tannins" and "great finish." Dunnuck awards it a respectable score of 93 points, emphasizing its potential for aging over the next decade.
Jeff Leve from The Wine Cellar Insider gives the wine a 91-point score, praising its aroma of "dark cherries, plum, and peppery spices" and its "soft, elegant, medium-bodied" structure. He highlights its "fresh and clean" character with a "juicy, round kirsch filled finish," suggesting it is enjoyable upon release.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also scores it at 91 points. The review mentions "hints of cinnamon and clove" that accentuate its "dark, plummy fruit" on the nose. The wine is described as "plush and broad in the mouth, even a bit creamy textured" with finishing notes of "Mexican chocolate." This particular vintage was produced from notably low yields of approximately 15 hectoliters per hectare, indicating its concentrated nature and potential to age well for at least a decade.
Vinous' Josh Raynolds gives the wine 92 points, highlighting its "vivid ruby-red" color and "spice-accented red and blue fruits and candied flowers" on the nose. He notes its "juicy, open-knit raspberry and boysenberry flavors" and praises its "very good clarity and lift on the long, smooth finish."
Wine Enthusiast's Anna Lee C. Iijima offers the highest praise with a 95-point score. She commends the wine's "bristling freshness and spine-tingling delicacy of texture," noting its "red-plum and raspberry flavors" that are "concentrated yet plush." The review highlights its "sweet spice and soft, mouthcoating tannins," declaring it both approachable young and solid enough to age well through 2030.
In summary, the 2018 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape is a well-regarded wine with a range of scores from 91 to 95 points. It is noted for its rich fruit flavors, elegant structure, and potential for aging, making it a compelling choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.
