Rotem & Mounir Saouma Châteauneuf-du-pape Arioso 2021. Score : 95
Starts off perfumed and stylish but slowly opens up to reveal a wealth of depth and dimension. Seriously structured, with layers of graphite, toasty cedar spice and wild woodsy notes, plus tobacco leaf and red fruit, all on a foundation of cast iron. Tangy acidity brings freshness to the densely packed finish. The oak influence still needs time to fully integrate; those with patience to cellar this will be rewarded. Grenache. Drink now through 2040. 20 cases imported.
Rotem & Mounir Saouma Châteauneuf-du-pape Omnia 2022. Score : 95
The gorgeous texture defines this beautiful, perfumy, inviting Châteauneuf. Fresh, crunchy red fruit is flecked with exotic spices, and incense wafts through, while green, herbal freshness brings lovely lift. Complex and pure, with a chalky feel to the midpalate, lined with warm stone and finely crushed mineral notes, plus grainy tannins. Smoky and long, with energy in reserve. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault. Drink now through 2038. 80 cases imported.
Rotem & Mounir Saouma Châteauneuf-du-pape Magis 2022. Score : 96
A distinctive, singular style, with tangy, salty layers of apple and melon powered by succulent lemon-lime acidity. Silky and finessed, wafting with smoke and flint on the close. Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Roussanne and Bourboulenc. Drink now through 2035. 40 cases imported.
Rotem & Mounir Saouma Châteauneuf-du-pape Arioso 2020. Score : 96
An alluring red, with equal parts fruit, spice, mineral and earth notes, all seamlessly integrated. A generous gush of red currant is flanked by salty iron, lavender and singed alder smoke. The tannins have taken on a velvety texture, harmoniously knitting all of the elements together through the long, complex finish, which pulses with energy. Drink now through 2040. 55 cases imported.
Rotem & Mounir Saouma Châteauneuf-du-pape Arioso 2019 Score : 96
Smoldering incense and salty iron share the stage with ripe red fruit and a lacquer of toasty cedar in this polished, expertly crafted red, which is texturally stunning, with extremely fine tannins effortlessly carrying the weight. The oak signature will continue to fade into the backdrop with a bit of cellaring, and the powerful, tightly wound core of graphite and fruit will unfurl, so patience will be rewarded. Beautiful and complex. Best from 2025 through 2040. 50 cases imported.
