Stéphane Usseglio & Thomas Farge - Oxymore 2019

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About the wine:

A joint project between Thomas Farge and Stéphane Usseglio, Oxymore 2019 is a blend of 65% Syrah, 30% Grenache and 5% Counoise. It's an interesting concept, but a little disjointed at the moment, with the volume of the north - violets, blueberries and crushed stones - currently dominating the sweeter, richer nuances of the south. Overall, it's medium-bodied, ripe and approachable, with silky tannins on the finish. Well worth following to see where it ends up.

James Suckling

About the wine:

Surprisingly deep nose of blackberry, damp earth and smoke, evoking an image of windswept autumn vineyards after a hot, dry summer. Full-bodied on the palate, with remarkable elegance and vitality for a red with broad, highly concentrated aromas. Plenty of tannin, but already well integrated. Long liquorice and mineral finish. Blend of 65% Syrah, with 30% Grenache and 5% Counoise.

Jeb Dunnuck

About the wine:

Oxymore 2019 is a collaboration between Thomas Farge and Stéphane Usseglio. It is a blend of 65% Syrah from old vines in the northern Rhône, 30% Grenache and 5% Counoise. It has a deep purple/ruby hue, with notes of red and black fruits, game, ground pepper and violets. This marvel attacks the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a fluid, elegant texture and ultra-fine tannins. While the Syrah is at the forefront on the nose, the Grenache is more apparent on the palate, and this is a simply elegant, seamless and undeniably delicious wine in the making. Enjoy over the next 7-8 years.