The blockbuster 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale (90% Grenache and 20% other authorized varietals) comes from a vineyard planted in 1902. Aged 80% in tank and 20% in small wood barrels, it may be the finest wine I have yet tasted from Raymond Usseglio. This exquisite offering is Burgundian-like in its floral minerality mixed with dense kirsch liqueur and garrigue notes. Full-bodied, sensationally rich, and large-scaled as well as fresh, vibrant, and precise, this sensational effort can be drunk now or cellared for 15-20 years. The name -Usseglio- is well-known in Chateauneuf du Pape as the Usseglio family immigrated from Italy during the Great Depression. There are two top domaines named Usseglio, that of Raymond and Pierre Usseglio. The Raymond Usseglio estate is now being run by Stephane Usseglio, who has introduced a new Mourvedre-based cuvee called La Parte des Anges (reviewed here and called Reserve des Anges in last year's report). The 2008s are very good for the vintage, but the 2007s are the finest wines I have tasted at Raymond Usseglio since their 1998s, and these may even eclipse them.Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800

One of the strong efforts, and a potential wine of the vintage, is the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale. An extraordinarily superb expression of kirsch liqueur intermixed with sandy, resiny notes as well as hints of seaweed, garrigue, and pepper, this wine is deep, full-bodied fabulously concentrated, with silky tannins and decent acidity. It’s a beauty and clearly a great example of old-vine Grenache made in unmanipulated, uncompromising fashion. Drink it over the next 15+ years. This staunch traditionalist, who ages everything in old barrels for 16 to 18 months, has turned out absolutely sensational 2007s, and his 2006s are certainly among the strongest wines of the vintage.Importer: Peter Weygandt, Weygandt-Metzler, Unionville, PA; tel. (610) 486-0800