The 1979 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Domaine Pierre Usseglio is a rarity, a wine that reflects the history of the region and traditional winemaking expertise. With its evolved aromas and softened texture, it offers a unique tasting experience, a journey through time for lovers of aged wines. Perfect for special occasions, it showcases the exceptional aging potential of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the outstanding character of Grenache in this region.
Châteauneuf du Pape Domaine Pierre Usseglio 1979
€110.40
Tax included
The 1979 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Domaine Pierre Usseglio is a rarity, a wine that reflects the history of the region and traditional winemaking expertise. With its evolved aromas and softened texture, it offers a unique tasting experience, a journey through time for lovers of aged wines. Perfect for special occasions, it showcases the exceptional aging potential of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the outstanding character of Grenache in this region.
Winery: Domaine Pierre Usseglio
Grapes: Grenache
Region: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Southern Rhône Valley, Rhône Valley, France
Appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Color: Red
Bottle Size: 0.75 L
Rating: 94 by Wine Enthusiast (Vintage 2016)
Description
The 1979 Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Domaine Pierre Usseglio is a rare, mature wine from one of the most respected estates in the appellation. This vintage reflects an era where traditional methods dominated production, allowing wines to age gracefully over time. After more than four decades, the wine has developed complex aromas of dried fruits, spices, leather, and forest floor, typical of aged Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.
Blend
While dominated by Grenache, this wine may also contain small amounts of other traditional appellation varieties, such as Syrah and Mourvèdre, following the estate’s practices at the time. Grenache contributes ripe fruit aromas and a velvety texture, while the other varieties add structure and spicy notes.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: The wine displays a mature color, with tawny hues, indicative of its age. It shows shades of mahogany and light brown, typical of aged wines.
Nose: The nose is complex and evolved, revealing dried fruit aromas (fig, prune), leather, tobacco, and notes of forest floor and mushrooms. Subtle spices like licorice, clove, and earthy nuances complete the aromatic profile.
Palate: On the palate, the wine is delicate and silky. The tannins are soft, and the texture is elegant. Flavors of dried fruits, sweet spices, and cocoa are enriched by tertiary notes of truffle, tobacco, and leather. The finish is long and persistent, marked by a beautiful minerality and evolving complexity.
Aging Potential
After more than 40 years, this wine is in a phase of maturity where it fully expresses the richness of aged Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It can be enjoyed now by those who appreciate well-aged wines, but it can still be cellared for a few more years under optimal conditions.
Food Pairing
A wine of this maturity deserves sophisticated dishes to complement its complex aromas:
Game (venison, wild boar)
Meat dishes with rich sauces (beef stew, lamb ragout)
Truffle and mushroom dishes
Aged and strong cheeses (Époisses, Roquefort)
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