Usseglio/Raymond Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Apôtres 2019

97 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Lastly, I was blown away by the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Apotres, which, had I looked at last year’s barrel sample, wouldn’t have been so surprising. An interesting blend of 38% Grenache followed by every variety out there, aged in clay jars, it reveals a deeper ruby/purple (yet lighter rim) color to go with fabulous notes of darker cherries, blackberries, spice, and flowers. Flawlessly balanced, silky, and pure, it’s another wine from this brilliant estate that, for whatever reason, brought to mind a Grand Cru Red Burgundy while tasting it. (11/3/21)"

94 points Josh Raynolds (Vinous): "Vivid ruby-red. Suave, spice-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry liqueur, garrigue and succulent flowers pick up a smoky mineral nuance in the glass. Concentrated yet lively red and dark berry liqueur and fruitcake flavors stain the palate and display superb clarity and spicy lift. Finishes sappy and precise, with silky tannins and resonating red fruit preserve and floral notes. Made from all 13 permitted varieties and raised in clay amphoras. Drink: 2024-2034. (Oct 2021)"

93 points James Suckling: "Deep and spicy with tons of blackberries and elderberries, this is still very young with a stack of fine tannins and really needs some time to mellow and become a bit less nervous. However, the impressive concentration and polish are already apparent. From organically grown grapes. Drinkable now, but best from 2024. (11/4/21)"