Viniou Reviews
Famille Pierre Usseglio’s 2022 Châteauneuf-du-Pape “Cuvée Première Pierre” is an expressive red wine that epitomises the tradition and complexity for which this iconic southern Rhône appellation is renowned. Crafted predominantly from Grenache, with common additions of Syrah, Mourvèdre, and perhaps a touch of Cinsault, it is grown on a patchwork of galets roulés (rounded pebbles) interspersed with sandy and clay-limestone soils. The 2022 vintage benefited from a hot, dry season that concentrates both colour and flavour, yet winemakers here succeed in retaining remarkable freshness. Fermentation is typically done in concrete or stainless steel, followed by élevage (maturation) in large foudres and sometimes in older barrels, ensuring the preservation of fruit purity while allowing the terroir to shine.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape sits at the heart of the southern Rhône, an area framed by Mediterranean influence, warm sunshine, and the cooling Mistral wind. The remarkable galets roulés serve both to retain daytime heat—helping grapes ripen fully—and to provide excellent drainage. This region is steeped in winemaking history, dating to the 14th century when the papacy relocated to Avignon and gave its name to the area. The diversity of soils, old vines, and a unique blend of up to 13 permitted grape varieties create wines of stamp and nuance.
With its deep, inviting aromas of ripe dark fruit, plums, black cherries, dried herbs (garrigue), and subtle spice, the Cuvée Première Pierre is ideally suited to rustic, full-flavoured fare. Classic pairings include roast lamb with Provencal herbs, duck breast, game, or a beef daube. Locally inspired matches might be a cassoulet or ratatouille, which complement the wine’s herbal undertones. Mature hard cheeses, such as aged Comté or Cantal, are also an excellent accompaniment.
For optimal appreciation, decant for at least one hour to allow the wine’s complex bouquet to unfurl. Serve between 16-18°C to fully express its generosity and structure. Cellaring for a few years will encourage further integration and tertiary notes, but the 2022 vintage already offers pleasure to the patient and the curious alike.
