Usseglio Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Impériale
Domaine Raymond a benchmark expression of old-vine Grenache, combining immense depth with remarkable lift and finesse. Drawn predominantly from century-old vines and raised in concrete to preserve purity, this is a luxurious, terroir-driven Rhône red that balances power, elegance and extraordinary length. Tasting Notes & Experience
Deep purple and highly concentrated in the glass, the wine opens with soaring floral aromas of violet and orange blossom, layered with sun-warmed wild strawberry, black cherry and blackcurrant. Subtle notes of garrigue, liquorice, crushed stone and a whisper of eucalyptus add freshness and complexity. On the palate it is full-bodied yet remarkably airy, with luscious fruit held in perfect balance by vibrant acidity and ultra-fine, silky tannins. The finish is breathtakingly long, saline and mineral, leaving a lasting impression of purity, energy and floral elegance. Key Details
- Winery: Domaine Raymond Usseglio & Fils
- Varietal: Predominantly Grenache with Counoise, Cinsault, Terret Noir and Clairette Blanche
- Region: Chteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône Valley, France
- Vintage: 2023
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- Volume: 750ml
- Other: Certified Organic & Biodynamic (Ecocert, Demeter, Biodyvin) Craftsmanship & Story
The Usseglio family’s Rhône journey began in 1931, when Francis Usseglio emigrated from Italy to work the vineyards of Chteauneuf-du-Pape. In 1963, Raymond Usseglio founded Domaine Raymond Usseglio & Fils, bottling at the estate from the outset. Today, the third generation—led by Stéphane Usseglio—continues this legacy with an uncompromising focus on terroir, balance and finesse.
The estate farms across a mosaic of classic Chteauneuf soils, including sandy plots for elegance and floral lift, clay and galets roulés for depth and power, and limestone influences for freshness and structure. Certified organic and biodynamic farming underpins every vineyard decision, while concrete fermentation and ageing preserve fruit purity and terroir expression. Special Features
Cuvée Impériale is crafted primarily from Grenache vines planted in 1901–1902, delivering naturally low yields and extraordinary concentration. Fermentation and ageing take place almost exclusively in concrete tanks, avoiding oak influence and allowing the wine’s floral lift, mineral tension and refined texture to shine. Bottled without filtration, it retains depth, energy and long-term ageing potential. Recognition & Accolades
Consistently hailed as one of Chteauneuf-du-Pape’s most refined and complete modern expressions.
- 98/100 Points – Stuart Pigott, James Suckling (2023)
- 97–98 /100 Points – Heiner Lobenberg (2023)
- 97/100 Points – Tannico Rating (2023)
- 94/100 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, Yohan Castaing (2023)
- 93–95/100 Points – Nicolas Greinacher (2023)
- 91–93/100 Points – Jeb Dunnuck (2023)
- Top 100 Recognition – No. 27 World Wine for 2025, James Suckling
These accolades confirm Cuvée Impériale’s status as a reference point for elegance, precision and longevity in Chteauneuf-du-Pape. Food Pairings
This is a wine built for the table, excelling alongside richly flavoured, thoughtfully prepared dishes. Classic pairings include herb-roasted lamb with garlic and rosemary, where the wine’s fine tannins and vibrant acidity cut through the richness while echoing the savoury garrigue notes. It is equally compelling with slow-braised beef, daube provençale or venison, matching depth with depth and allowing its floral lift and mineral finish to bring balance.
For a Mediterranean approach, pair with moussaka, ratatouille or mushroom-based dishes seasoned with thyme and oregano. Mature hard cheeses such as Comté or aged Parmesan provide a refined conclusion, drawing out the wine’s saline persistence and remarkable length. Perfect for Gifting or Sipping
Powerful yet supremely refined, Cuvée Impériale is ideal for milestone occasions, serious collectors and long, celebratory meals. A wine that impresses immediately while rewarding slow, contemplative enjoyment. Fast, Secure NZ-Wide Delivery
Order online for fast delivery. Lovingly packed with a selection of stylish packaging and a personal message option to complete the perfect gift.