Domaine Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf du Pape 2020

A blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 5% each Mourvedre and Cinsaut, the 2020 Chateauneuf-du-Pape comes in at 15.5% alcohol. The 2020 Chateauneuf-du-Pape displays pronounced aromas of glossy red and black fruits, exotic spices, licorice and a pinch of mint. Full-bodied, rich and layered, it concludes with a round finish.

One of the top classic cuvées out there is the 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape, a blend of 80% Grenache, 10% Syrah, and 5% each Mourvedre and Cinsault. Sporting a deeper ruby/plum color, it offers up lots of ripe blackberry and darker cherry fruits as well as notes of spice, ground pepper, violets, and garrigue. It's pure, medium-bodied, has a supple, layered textured, and a good finish. It shows the more up-front, charming, soft style of the vintage and is perfect for enjoying over the coming 7-8 years, if not over a decade.

The full-bodied 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape doesn't appear to have the concentration to warrant a higher score, but it is silky and easy to drink, with delicious blackberry and black olive notes.