Usséglio & Fils Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée "Girard" 2022

This is a classic Châteauneuf-du-Pape, bursting with dark fruits, lightly spiced and garrigue-y earthiness but remains light on its feet. Dark and powerful, this makes a bold statement on the full-bodied palate, but unlike so many 2022 Chateauneufs it doesn't edge in the rich and creamy direction. It has a cornucopia of black fruit, black olive and tar aromas. Major tannins, but they are very fine, and give the finish energy and drive as well as structure. A cuvee based on old-vine Grenache with Syrah, Cinsault and Counoise from biodynamically grown grapes. Matured almost exclusively in concrete tanks.

Stephane Usséglio, son of Raymond, has been at the helm of the domaine since 1998, and he strives to reach the full potential of the family's holdings, some of the best of Chateauneuf. Considered one of the top producers in the appellation, Usséglio creates consistently stellar wine every vintage. Embracing biodynamic farming practices from early on, the winery received the certification in 2011 and Biodivin certification in 2022.

Half his vines are situated near the road in the lieu-dit "La Crau," and the other half on the hill across the road from the actual ruins of the "new castle of the Pope." The average age for his Chateauneuf vines is between 50-60 years old, and the cuvée Imperiale vines are over 110 years old. The Cuvée Girard is bottled exclusively for importer Peter Weygandt and is about 85% Grenache with Syrah, Counoise and Cinsault filling out the blend.