Domaine Raymond Usseglio & Fils La Genese 2021

This wine is ready to impress now, but with the potential to age gracefully for up to 15 years in your cellar. And for the full experience, decant it for about an hour before serving.

Domaine Raymond Usseglio was founded in 1964 by the dynamic duo of Raymond and Danielle Usseglio. Since then, this estate has become a true star of the Southern Rhône, crafting a stunning range of both red and white Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.

Stéphane, son of Raymond and Danielle, took the helm in 1999, bringing a fresh perspective to the domaine. He’s known for his innovative use of concrete fermenting tanks, but he also has a few other tricks up his sleeve. “La Genese,” for example, is a 100% Grenache that’s fermented and aged in a massive clay vessel affectionately nicknamed “The Drunk Turtle.”

“La Genese” greets you with an alluring bouquet of blackberry and black cherry, accented by hints of tobacco and herbs. This decadent, approachable wine has a generous, rounded mouthfeel, refreshing acidity, and velvety tannins. On the palate, those red and black fruit flavors continue to shine, joined by subtle notes of vanilla and chocolate. The Grenache grapes are sourced from both the stony soils of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the sandy soils of Lirac, adding complexity and depth. The finish is long and lingering, with hints of balsamic vinegar and spice.

“La Genese” is a brilliant match for richly flavored red meat dishes, such as barbecued beef ribs or a hearty oxtail soup.