Dom. Pierre Usseglio et Fils Chateauneuf-du-Pape Mon Aieul 2009

"Full ruby. Intense black raspberry and mulberry aromas are complicated by suggestions of Asian spices, licorice and musky herbs. Bright and sappy on the palate, with a seamless texture to the spice-accented red and dark berry compote flavors. Notes of lavender and allspice carry through the long, juicy, nicely focused finish. I suspect that this wine will drink well on the young side."

93 Points

International Wine Cellar

"This ripe red offers layers of linzer torte, cassis and blackberry fruit piled on top of well-rounded tannins. Loads of spice and licorice ripple through the finish, with an underlying iron hint. Shows the focus and polish of the vintage. Best from 2012 through 2020. 1,000 cases made. "

92 Points

Wine Spectator

"The dark ruby/plum 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Mon Aieul (in most years a blend of 95 to nearly 100% Grenache, aged 90% in cement tanks and the remaining 10% in demi-muids) is seductive and concentrated, with loads of plum, fig, blueberry and bouquet garni notes. With its lush, heady mouthfeel, full body, real opulence and silkiness, and some spice, this wine is on a relatively fast evolutionary track, and probably best drunk in its first 10-15 years of life.
92+ Points"

92 Points

The Wine Advocate