USSEGLIO RAYMOND & FILS CHARLES 1er LIRAC 2023

Importer's notes
"A luscious red from a Cru-rated zone in the hot Southern Rhone Valley. Raymond Usseglio is known for the extraordinary wines from the region's leading village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This label is basically the same thing — but for a much, much cheaper — from the neighbouring village of Lirac. With Lush Grenache backed up by those more sturdy and savoury grapes that make up the GSM blend, the Charles 1st Lirac is a delicious red to drink now or cellar."

Winery notes (2023 Vintage)
"Lirac, a neighboring cru located on the left bank of the Rhône, near the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation. Red wine from a traditional blend, with a marked predominance of octogenarian vines, it represents the very essence of these southern terroirs bathed in sun.

The grapes come from plots located on the right bank of the Rhône, in the commune of Saint-Geniès-de Comolas. These vines are planted in soils of sand, pebbles, and red clay marls. The wine is fermented and aged in traditional concrete tanks to fully preserve the purity of the fruit and reflect the expression of its terroir. Unfiltered wine.

Vegetal notes reminiscent of the Mediterranean scrubland, eucalyptus, and verbena mingle with fruity aromas of strawberries, raspberries, and black cherries, alongside a subtle spicy touch of pepper and dried spices. A luscious, round, and velvety texture paired with refreshing acidity makes this wine particularly approachable. Its long and spicy finish completes this tasting experience"

94/100 Stuart Pigott, JamesSuckling.com (2023 Vintage)
"A deep nose of Mediterranean herbs, licorice and a touch of raw meat. Substantial richness is wrapped around the compact tannin structure on the full-bodied palate, the tannins building in the bold, plush finish. Old vines, mostly grenache with syrah and mourvedre. Some whole-cluster. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold."