As to the reds, the 2011s and 2012s are both solid, with the nod going to the 2012s. The 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape, which is comprised of 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre and the balance Syrah, Cinsault and other allowed varieties, displays quality black raspberry, spice, toast and licorice aromas and flavors to go with a medium-bodied, supple and straightforward palate. There’s solid purity here and this workhorse-styled Chateauneuf should be consumed in its first decade of life. Drink now-2021.
Covering 45 acres (37 in red and the rest planted to white varieties) spread throughout Chateauneuf du Pape, this top-notch estate has been run by Raymond Usseglio’s son, Stephane, since 2004, with consulting help from Xavier Vignon. These wines are consistently outstanding and warrant serious attention.
Importer: Weygandt-Metzler; tel. (610) 486-0700