The 2021 Domaine Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape La Part des Anges is a red proprietary blend from the Southern Rhone sub-region in France. This Chateauneuf du Pape is composed of 70% Mourvedre, 20% Grenache, and 10% Syrah, and stands out as the only Chateauneuf from this producer that is matured in oak, specifically in demi-muid casks. This wine also carries the distinction of being produced from biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification.
James Suckling awarded this wine a score of 95, describing it as "dark, smoky and meaty," with "tonnes of smoked bacon and spicy character." He emphasized the wine's "seriously tannic, driving finish" and suggested that it could be consumed now or held for future enjoyment. He also noted its unusual blend and method of maturation, which contribute to its unique profile (jamessuckling.com, 5/22/2023).
Jeb Dunnuck also gave this wine a 95, praising its "incredibly pure, vibrant aromatics of black and blue fruits, ground pepper, spice, and spring flowers," along with a "kiss of background oak." He highlighted the wine's medium to full-body, ripe, polished tannins, and great finish, calling it "a brilliant 2021 in the making" (jebdunnuck.com, 11/11/2022).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate offered the highest praise with a score of 98. This review highlighted the wine's subtle and well-integrated cedar notes, which add nuance to aromas of "crushed stone, plums, and black cherries." The wine was described as "full-bodied, rich and velvety in texture, with a near-limitless finish," marking it as "simply super stuff" (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 9/29/2023).
Jeff Leve gave the wine a 94, noting its darker hue for the vintage and a complex bouquet of "smoke, flowers, spice, meat, espresso, incense, and dark red fruits." He found the palate experience to be lush, with a depth of flavor, richness, elegance, length, freshness, and minerality. Leve recommended drinking this wine from 2025 to 2037 (TheWineCellarInsider.com, 1/30/2024).
Overall, the 2021 Domaine Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape La Part des Anges is celebrated for its complex aromas, vibrant flavors, and excellent aging potential, making it a standout selection from the 2021 vintage.