Rotem and Mounir Saouma: A Bold Fusion of Burgundy and Rhône

Rotem and Mounir Saouma, founders of the iconic Lucien Le Moine in Burgundy, ventured into the Rhône Valley in 2009, establishing their own domaine in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. What began with the purchase of a small, neglected parcel in the famed Pignan vineyard has now expanded into 12 hectares across key villages like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Orange, Courthézon, and Bédarrides. These vineyards are planted with both Grenache and Mourvèdre, with vines dating as far back as the 1940s and 1960s. The terroir here is diverse, featuring a combination of limestone, clay, sand, and galets roulés (large rounded stones), contributing to the complexity of their wines.

Their philosophy of winemaking mirrors that of their Burgundy operation—emphasizing minimal intervention and long élevage (aging). In the vineyard, the Saoumas employ organic practices, focusing on soil health and vine vitality. Their winemaking involves long, gentle macerations, using a mix of fermentation vessels like wooden vats, concrete eggs, and foudres (large barrels), while their wines undergo extended aging, often for over 24 months, to bring out the nuances of the terroir.

Among their standout wines is Châteauneuf-du-Pape Arioso, made from a rare plot of old-vine Grenache planted in the 1930s. This wine is celebrated for its depth, finesse, and rich fruit character. Their Omnia cuvée, made from grapes sourced from all five of Châteauneuf’s communes, aims to encapsulate the diversity of the appellation.

The Saoumas are also recognized for their innovative approach to white wines in a region more traditionally known for reds. Their Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Magis, sourced from limestone-heavy parcels, is often compared to the great white wines of Burgundy due to its minerality, tension, and aging potential.

In short, Rotem and Mounir Saouma have brought the precision of Burgundy winemaking to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, creating wines that speak to the past and future of this historic region, while showcasing their mastery over the diverse terroirs of the Rhône.

Rotem & Mounir Saouma