Domaine Pierre Usseglio Lirac 2022 from the Southern Rhône is an exciting, Grenache‑lead red that drinks like a baby Châteauneuf – generous, dark‑fruited and spicy, but beautifully balanced and far more affordable.

In the glass, this 2022 Domaine Pierre Usseglio Lirac (60% Grenache, 15–20% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, 10% Cinsault) shows deep ruby colour and aromas of ripe blackberry, cassis and black cherry with garrigue herbs, licorice, lavender and a hint of grilled meat. The palate is rich and full‑bodied yet fresh, loaded with black fruits, spice and savoury herbs, wrapped in fine, ripe tannins that give shape without rough edges.

This Domaine Pierre Usseglio Lirac 2022 is a brilliant match for herb‑rubbed lamb cutlets, grilled beef, hearty stews, sausages, pizza with cured meats or a good cheeseboard stacked with aged gouda and Comté, where its depth and southern warmth really shine. Serve it with a quick splash in a decanter and you’ve got a serious Rhône red that overdelivers at the price.