Domaine Usseglio Cuvée Impériale 2018

Most of the vInes for the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale were planted in 1902, mainly Grenache, with a few other scattered plants of other varieties. Full-bodied and concentrated, it boasts massive flavors of raspberries and cherries, with just enough herbal intricacies woven into the fabric of the wine to impart a sense of lightness and freshness—it positively tingles on the long, long finish. Produced from biodynamically grown fruit at yields just half the maximum permitted by the appellation (16–18 hectoliters per hectare, versus 35), it's a tremendous effort. - Joe Czerwinski. 

A forward, charming example of this cuvee, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Imperiale is almost all old-vine Grenache that was brought up in concrete tanks. It offers a ruby/purple hue as well as a beautiful perfume of raspberries, candied violets, peppery spices, and flowery incense. With medium to full-bodied richness, an elegant texture, the more moderate concentration and depth of the vintage, and outstanding length, drink this beauty anytime over the coming 10-12 years.

Medium to full-bodied, it has concentrated dark fruit, blackcurrant and blackberry, a good sense of lift and enough freshness at its core. Plentiful ripe tannins, real structure, a bit step up from their Tradition this year. Well balanced, fresh and concentrated for the vintage. Drinkable now, but I would keep ideally until at least 2027. From Grenache planted in 1901 and 1902.