2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Mon Aieul

The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée De Mon Aïeul is also all Grenache but was raised all in demi-muids (I believe all used). Its more ruby/plum color is followed by an incredible bouquet of mulled red and black fruits, sweet Provençal herbs, spice box, and graphite. It's slightly broader and more expansive than the Deux Freres and has a sexy, full-bodied mouthfeel, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. This reminds me a little of the 2006, and while it's already brilliant, I have no doubt it will evolve for 15-20 years in cold cellars. One of the leading estates in Châteauneuf du Pape is unquestionably Domaine Pierre Usseglio, which is run by Thierry and Jean-Pierre Usseglio, with the next generation of Gregory Usseglio now working full-time with the estate as well. The lineup has shifted slightly over the years, with their Côtes du Rhône being replaced by the L’Unique label, which is released as a Vin de France. They produce a terrific Lirac, both red and white. Looking at the Châteauneuf du Pape releases, the classic red and white are now released under the label Premiere Pierre, and they’ve added the new Clos Pierre Usseglio 18 Cépages, which includes all 18 of the permitted grape varieties, red and white. The Cuvée Mon Aïeul and Reserve des Deux Freres remain unchanged and are two brilliant, yet dramatically different, expressions of Grenache.

The 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul is 100% old-vine Grenache, sourced from three different lieux-dits: Les Serres (galets), La Crau (clay) and La Guigasse (sand). This preliminary blend came across as rather polite and restrained, with attractive raspberry shadings, silky tannins and a more elegant style than exhibited by past vintages.