CDP Cuvée Mon Aieul, Domaine Pierre Usseglio 2007

There are 1,800 cases of the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Mon Aieul (100% tank-aged Grenache). It represents an awesome naked/virginal expression of Grenache from three vineyard parcels planted in sand, clay, and limestone soils. After tasting this wine on five separate occasions, I can state with certainty, it has the most saturated color of any Mon Aieul produced to date. Moreover, its perfume of blueberry liqueur, black raspberries, licorice, roasted meat juices, and lavender is incredible. Full-bodied power, a multilayered mouthfeel, tremendous purity, and awesome concentration put this wine in a class by itself. This sensational Chateauneuf du Pape is still very young, and 3-4 years of cellaring is required. It should be a modern day legend and last for nearly two decades.

Ripe but streamlined, with gorgeous layers of crushed blackcherry, macerated currant and warm fig flavors that stretch overfresh minerality and a long finish filled with tobacco, spice and bittersweetcocoa. This has energy and drive to go with its ripeness.Best from 2010 through 2022.

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Mon Aieul (100% Grenache) represents a naked expression of the three vineyards planted on sand, clay, and limestone. There are 1,700 cases of this 2007, which offers a surreal tasting experience. Soaring aromas of blueberries, black raspberries, licorice, roasted herbs, and grilled meats are followed by a wine of superb intensity, purity, multi-dimensions, and an endless finish. It should be drinkable when released, and age effortlessly for 15-20 years. It reminded me of the utterly profound 2003, with more freshness and depth.What a superlative performance from proprietors Jean-Pierre and Thierry Usseglio. This is one of the few estates where the 2006s are so great that they eclipse their brilliant 2005s, and come very close to what was accomplished in 2007. 2007 is another stunning success from brothers Jean-Pierre and Thierry Usseglio.