The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Deux Freres, which comes from Les Serres, La Crau, and Esquirons (which is high on the plateau just behind the ruined chateau of the village), is an 1,800-bottle cuvee made from 100% Grenache. Unlike the Mon Aieul, part of the Deux Freres spends time in one and two year old small barrels, and the rest in 600-liter demi-muids. A fabulous effort, it may be the single greatest wine of the vintage, although the 2006 Clos des Papes and a few others will certainly challenge it. An inky/blue/purple color is followed by aromas of charcoal, pepper, blueberries, blackberries, camphor, licorice, and incense. The incredibly complex aromatics are matched by a palate of massive intensity, extraordinary purity, and an unctuous texture. This amazing wine unfolds slowly in the glass, but wow, what a ride it takes the taster on! After 5-8 years of bottle age, it should prove to be a modern day monument for Chateauneuf du Pape, evolving for three decades or more.

A candidate for the wine of the vintage, and one of the few wines to hit this level of quality in the vintage, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Deux Freres is a selection of 100% Grenache that was raised 60% in demi-muids and 40% in two- to three-year-old barrels. Possessing a slightly darker color than the Mon Aieul and a bigger, richer wine, it offers incredible notes of cassis, black currants, smoked herbs and leather in a full-bodied, voluptuous, ripe yet seamless package. It will hold for a decade, yet it’s a thrill ride today.

(100% grenache) Inky ruby. Extremely powerful, compellingly complex bouquet of dark berry liqueur, kirsch, lavender perfume, black olive, pipe tobacco and cured meat. Completely saturates the palate with deep, sweet black and blue fruit flavors along with notes of cola, olive and succulent herbs. Almost too big for the mouth, and yet there's no excess fat, rough edges or heaviness. In fact, this is graceful. Finishes with remarkable clarity, breadth and persistence.