2022 Domaine Usseglio Raymond & Fils Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Impériale

WA96-98 The 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Imperiale—tasted as a tank sample—boasts knockout aromas of rose petals, garrigue, ripe cherries and red raspberries. It’s full-bodied and tannic, concentrated yet somehow light, airy and refreshing at the same time, with a long, lingering finish. Great stuff from vines more than 100 years old.
JD96 The 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvée Impériale is just about all Grenache yet includes a mix of other permitted varieties, all raised in concrete. Playing in the medium-bodied, perfumed, elegant style of the vintage, this beauty offers an incredible perfume of sweet raspberries, spring flowers, peppery garrigue, and violets. With ultra-fine tannins, flawless overall balance, and a great finish, it’s a gem in the vintage that will evolve gracefully over the coming 10-15 years.
JS96 This astonishing 2022 Chateauneuf has giant depth and concentration of black fruit aromas with notes of spices and dry earth, beneath which is a deep foundation of super-fine tannins. Very long, imposing finish with stacks of licorice and black olive character. Great aging potential. 92% grenache from vines planted in 1901 and 1902, with a small amount of white grape varieties inter-planted. Matured exclusively in concrete tanks. Bottled unfiltered. Drinkable now, but best from 2025.