Domaine Pierre Usseglio, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve des 2 Freres 2010

The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Deux Freres is composed of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah, and came in at 15.5% alcohol. In most vintages, this is basically the same cuvee as the Mon Aieul but with more press wine and the use of small new oak casks for aging the Syrah component. Approximately 30% stems were used in the fermentation. The 2010 is closed and nearly inaccessible at present. Full-bodied and massive with an inky/purple color, it reveals notes of smoked meats, blackberries, blueberries, flowers and subtle toast in the background. An enormous unctuosity and viscosity give the wine a palate gripping mouthfeel as the tannins are coated with glycerin. This brilliant wine needs at least 5-7 years of cellaring, and should keep for three decades thereafter.

Dark and brooding, the 2010 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve des Deux Frères initiates with striking notes of tobacco, dried black fruits, white mushrooms, cured meat and crushed rocks. Fleshier and more evolved than the Mon Aïeul from the same vintage, the 2010 Réserve des Deux Frères is a full-bodied, rich and powerful red Châteauneuf-du-Pape loaded with substance and depth. If you own a bottle or two, now is the time to start enjoying them.