Domaine Raymond Usseglio & Fils Cuvee Imperiale Chateauneuf Du Pape 2021

This wine is drinking beautifully now, but it also has the potential to age gracefully for up to 20 years in your cellar. And to truly unlock its complexity, decant it for an hour before serving.

Officially founded in 1964, but with a family history in winemaking dating back to 1948, Domaine Raymond Usseglio is a pillar of the Rhône Valley. Today, the estate is led by Stéphane Usseglio, a third-generation winemaker who took the reins at the young age of 22.

Stéphane has spearheaded the winery’s transition to biodynamic farming, and since 2015, Domaine Raymond Usseglio has been fully certified organic. He favors concrete vats for fermentation, and both the estate’s flagship Châteauneuf-du-Pape blend and this “Impériale” cuvée are aged entirely in concrete.

“Impériale” is a Grenache-dominant red blend that bursts with floral aromas of roses, ripe raspberry, juicy cherry, fragrant thyme, and exotic spices. The fruit comes from old vines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, some planted as far back as 1901! While it boasts a robust 15% alcohol, there’s no harshness to be found. Instead, the palate is awash in delectable fruit flavors—think red forest berries and cherry cola—all complemented by peppery herbs and a grounding earthiness. The finish is rich and juicy, with a lingering vegetal note reminiscent of lavender.

“Impériale” is a delightful companion for thyme-infused lamb dishes, hearty beef stew, or even a flavorful vegetable casserole.