Chateauneuf du Pape Rouge Arioso Rotem & Mounir Saouma 2013

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge "Arioso" 2013 from Rotem & Mounir Saouma – a fascinating and extremely elegant wine with a distinctly "bourguignonized" soul.

Producer & Background

Created by Rotem & Mounir Saouma, a vineyard owned by the couple with roots in Burgundy (Lucien Le Moine). In 2009, they purchased an overlooked parcel on the Pignan plateau in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, close to the famous Rayas parcels.

The grapes are 100% Grenache from old vines planted in the 1930s, with extremely low yields – only about 1 ton per acre.

Vinification & Stylistic Profile

Whole bunches are fermented after a cold maceration (14 days), without sulfur, without stirring, and with slow pressing. The wine is aged for 3–4 years in barriques without racking to preserve complex aromatic layers from the lees.

The style is clearly embodied with Burgundian elegance: delicate, yet concentrated and refined.

Tasting Notes & Character

Vinous (Josh Raynolds) : Clear ruby ​​color; minerally clear aromas of dark berries and intense flowers; energetic and sweet on the palate with raspberry and floral pastilles accented by exotic Asian spice; long, focused finish with smooth tannins.

Jeb Dunnuck : Reminiscent of a Grand Cru from Chambertin – black cherries, forest floor, spring flowers, damp earth and spices in a medium-bodied, ethereal texture; with light, integrated acidity and sweet tannins. A “Burgundy lover’s Châteauneuf” with nuance and complexity rather than power.

Wine Spectator : Aromas of Lapsang souchong tea, burnt cinnamon, cloves and warm blackcurrant; rich and silky fruit body with crushed cherries and raspberries; polished, incense-like finish. Drink between 2020 and 2035.

Technical Details

Alcohol content : Approximately 14%

Best drinking time : Typically from 2018–2020 through 2029–2035, depending on taste and event.

Ratings : Overall 93–95 points from Raynolds, Dunnuck and Wine Spectator.

Suitable for

Due to the wine's structure and refined profile: ideal for veal , lamb , beef , as well as spring and autumn dishes with mushrooms, fine spices and elegant umami.

In short : This is an exceptionally elegant and refined Châteauneuf-du-Pape – a wine that is more reminiscent of a great Burgundian red than a typical Rhône style. It combines depth, finesse and terroir in a way that captivates and evolves beautifully over time.