Domaine Usseglio is, first and foremost, the story of a family. In 1948 Francis Usseglio, an Italian labourer, came to Châteauneuf-du-Pape to work in the vineyards. His passion for wine and motivation led him to take on a few hectares of vines on a sharecropping basis known as métayage. His son Raymond took over from him, continuing the tradition but adding a modern touch by converting the vineyards to biodynamic. Today, the 24-hectare Domaine Usseglio is run by Francis' grandchildren, Jean-Pierre, Thierry and Stéphane and is one of the appellation's leading lights. Its grape varieties are typical for Châteauneuf with Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Cinsault for red wine and Bourboulenc, Clairette and Grenache for white. The vines are between 30 and 60 years old and harvesting is carried out manually. The resulting wines have plenty of character, combining power with a hint of rustic simplicity.

The Cuvée Impériale comes from hundred-year-old vines planted during the domain's first years of existence. Consisting mostly of Grenache, supplemented with old local grape varieties, it offers power and density. Tasting begins with a dark red colour, with beautiful intensity. It continues with an expressive bouquet, revealing aromas of black berries and spices. Lastly, the palate offers a strong attack, continued with remarkable length in the mouth and notes of jammy black berries.