Rotem and Mounir Saouma Arioso 2014 (96 W&S)
“When Rotem and Mounir Saouma aren’t working in Beaune at Lucien LeMoine, their micro-negociant firm, they are in Châteauneuf, tending the 21 acres of vines they’ve acquired since arriving in 2006. The attraction wasn’t only affordable land; it was also grenache, a variety they find compelling. Arioso is an ode to the variety, pulled from the first parcel they purchased, a north-facing plot in Pignan planted in 1942. They treat the fruit gently, using ambient yeasts and no pump-overs or punch-downs, for three to four weeks, then let it sit in 500-liter barrels with all the lees for 36 months. The wine sings, the flavors jewel-toned in their clarity and precision, etched by the fine acidity. “Red wine in a white dress,” one taster said, remarking on its elegance. If you open it now, decant it a few hours before serving; otherwise age it for another five to ten years.”
Related Wines
Rotem and Mounir Saouma
Rotem and Mounir Saouma Châteauneuf-du-Pape Arioso 2014
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
From his original 5 acres in Pignan, Mounir has one plot, of 100% Grenache planted in the 1930s, which yields naturally at a miniscule 1 ton per acre. From these vines he produces Arioso, a Chateauneuf of astounding depth and finesse.
Related Producers
Rotem and Mounir Saouma
Rhône Valley, France
Burgundy meets the Rhone. An utter respect for tradition, and in some ways a total break. We've watched as Mounir and Rotem Saouma, of Burgundy producer Lucien Le Moine, slowly developed their estate and wines in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and the results today are too extraordinary and distinct to ignore.