Lirac is the region that sits across the river from the more famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation in the Southern Rhône. It's the poor cousin with a chip on its shoulder from across the road. But the wines are anything but poor - instead, they can often outstage their fancy family. This Grenache blend is a cracking example - it's a larger-than-life character, with a huge bear hug of flavour that is just irresistible.

For four generations, the Usseglio family have farmed vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, starting with Francis Usseglio who moved out from Italy in the 30s to make wines. But like every family winery story, it's more about the generations that have come after Francis, who made their stamp, with Pierre's name on the door after he took over from his father and expanded the family property. More recently, Jean-Pierre and Thierry have taken over the reins. Why all this talk about family and generational change? Well, over half of the vines on the family vineyard are now over 65 years old, which makes this winery story about old vines, history and tradition, with the Pierre Usseglio name all about hearty red wines that the Southern Rhône is famous for. The winemaking here is slow and manual, making wines that feel luscious, welcoming and timeless.