2007 Domaine Pierre Usseglio & Fils Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée de Mon Aieul

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul is just now starting to shed a tiny amount of its abundant baby fat that's been front and center since release. Still, it pulls no punches in its thrilling aromas and flavors of kirsch liqueur, roasted garrigue, black raspberries, incense, cured meats and licorice, and it is about as quintessential Grenache as you can find. Thrillingly concentrated, intense, perfumed and layered with incredible balance, this full-bodied beauty should hit its peak in another 2-3 years and keep for at least a decade after that.

Inky ruby. Powerful dark berry and cherry preserve aromas are complicated by cola, underbrush and Indian spices. Lush and creamy, with concentrated black raspberry and cherry-cola flavors and a jolt of white pepper on the back. Finishes with mounting sweetness and excellent persistence. This refuses to let go of the palate.

Vivid ruby. Exotic, complex nose displays scents of raspberry, smoky herbs, anise and gingerbread. Supple red and dark berry preserve flavors are seamless and alluringly sweet, and nicely lifted by tangy minerality. Manages to be both rich and lively, finishing with impressive clarity and persistent spiciness.