Part 1
Over the coming weeks we will be sending out pre-shipment offers for a number of our acclaimed producers in the Rhone and their stunning 2016’s, hailed as one of the finest ever vintages in the Southern Rhone. The wines are now all safely in bottle and are about to be shipped this Autumn. Whilst it is always tempting to focus on the point-grabbing luxury cuvees, the reality is that with a stunning vintage like 2016 it is the Traditional or ‘Entry Level’ cuvees, which truly shine and offer extraordinary value for money.
We have been fortunate enough to work with Domaine Pierre Usseglio, and the jovial and charming proprietors Thierry and Jean-Pierre, ever since they inherited their Chateauneuf-du-Pape estate from their father way back in 1998. Aiming to honour tradition but also looking to the future, the brothers have gone to great lengths to improve the consistency and quality of wine making in the cellars, now employing the practise of de-stemming 100% of their grapes. Thierry and Jean-Pierre’s approach is measured and not too interventionalist, resulting in wine that makes for an excellent modern, highly refined take on tradition.
Their Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tradition is one of the most consistently styled and appealing wines from France’s oldest and (arguably) most famous appellation. It combines the traditional character of the appellation with a refined elegance and purity of fruit. The 2016 is no different - it is powerful and full-bodied whilst also being seamless and pure. It is rounded and wonderfully balanced with a rich palate of black raspberries and currents balanced with classic Chateauneuf garrigues-like flavours and a touch of gently woody spice.
Jeb Dunnuck, once a writer for the wine advocate, awarded the Tradition a 93/100 and had this to say about Pierre Usseglio and the wonderful 2016 vintage:
“When you consider what this estate has accomplished over the past two decades, it’s easy to include Domaine Pierre Usseglio as not only one of the top address in Chateauneuf-du-Pape but in all of France as well. They have been on a sensational roll since 1998 and have yet to put a foot wrong. That’s apparent with these latest 2016’s, which I believe are the best wines ever produced here.”
These wines are offered in cases of 6 bottles and are scheduled to arrive later this Autumn/ early Winter. Upon arrival, we shall contact you and organise delivery. Also available for purchase in bond if required. Please contact us.