Domaine Pierre Usseglio et Fils Chateauneuf-du-Pape Mon Aieul 2005

"(90% Grenache in this vintage and 10% Syrah) Dense ruby/blue/purple to the rim, this is no wimpy wine, tipping the scales at 15.8% alcohol, but the higher than normal acidity and moderately high tannins give it a decidedly vin de garde style that promises a considerably long life. Unlike the 2004, or 2003 for that matter, it is a wine for patient connoisseurs who are willing to invest 5-6 years. Made from very low yields of 22 hectoliters per hectare, this blockbuster, powerful, muscular style of wine should be at its best between 2012 and 2023. Brothers Jean-Pierre and Thierry Usseglio have once again produced some of the finest Chateauneuf du Papes of the vintage, particularly in 2005. This is no small accomplishment given the fact that their 2003 cuvees were among the very finest wines of that challenging and irregular year."
-Robert Parker 93-95

"Saturated ruby. Explosive aromas of blackberry, cherry and licorice, along with an intense floral note. Impressively fleshy and mouthfilling, with dense, sweet red and dark berry flavors, a subtle garrigue quality and supple tannins. Lush, creamy and extremely long on the finish, with a dominant flavor of ripe blackcurrant."
-International Wine Cellar 93-96