Domaine Raymond Usseglio & Fils La Genese 2022

Cellar for up to 15 years. Decant for up to an hour before serving. Domaine Raymond Usseglio was founded in 1964, by Rhone Valley power couple Raymond and Danielle Usseglio. Since then, the domaine has grown into a true Southern Rhone establishment, producing a range of stunning Châteauneuf-du-Pape cuveés, both red and white. Raymond and Danielle’s son, Stéphane, took over in 1999. He enjoys using concrete fermenting tanks for his wines but also employs some other, unusual methods. “La Genese” is 100% Grenache, fermented and aged in a huge clay vessel nicknamed “The Drunk Turtle”. “La Genese” shows an attractive bouquet of blackberry and black cherry, coupled with hints of tobacco and herb. This is a decadent, drinkable wine, with a generous, round mouthfeel, refreshing acidity and luscious tannins. On the palate, you’ll find further notes of red and black fruit, with hints of vanilla and chocolate. The Grenache fruits were sourced equally between the stony soil of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the sandy soil of Lirac. The finish is persistent, with notions of balsamic vinegar and spice. “La Genese” will be a brilliant pairing for richly scented red meat dishes, such as barbecued beef ribs, or oxtail soup.

Price: £21.23 from 8wines UK