"Deep, bright, violet-tinged color. Powerful scents of kirsch, roasted coffee, bitter chocolate, bacon fat and candied violet. Fabulously rich and concentrated, with densely packed but pure and precise flavors of berries, plum, cherry cola, floral pastille and charred meat. This sees only 5% oak. Finishes ripe and thick, with very persistent roasted berry flavors."
Robert Parker
RP98
"The best bottle of this I've had (and I've had plenty), Usseglio's 2003 Châteauneuf du Pape Cuvée de Mon Aieul is a blockbuster and one of the true stars of this vintage. Almost all Grenache (there's a small part of Syrah and Cinsault) that was harvest between September 1-13, partially destemmed and aged in both tank and foudre, this massive, voluptuous effort is almost overflowing with notes of ground herbs, chocolate dusted meats, black fruits and licorice. Showing none of the negative traits of the vintage, with beautiful purity and freshness, sweet tannin, and a great finish."
Wine Spectator
WS95
"Really silky for an '03, with gorgeous raspberry ganache and cassis fruit that glides atop grilled herb, mineral and tar flavors. Long, authoritative finish shows lots of grip and fruit. A powerful yet racy wine. This really rocks. Drink now through 2025."
